We asked our people, “what services would you like to see improved within your community?” our people responded with: 

• The need for more integrated models of care
• Need for better wheelchair access when attending appointments at Waikato hospital.
• Need to look at transport options to support rural access services at Waikato Hospital. I.e, park n ride option. Park the vehicle at a designated spot, a bus will pick up passengers to take to the hospital. The bus will need to run daily. 
• There is a need for a warm, inviting space where people can make a cuppa while waiting for the health shuttle to pick them up from Waikato Hospital. The transit lounge is cold and uninviting. 
• Thames Hospital was acknowledged for its marketing. “Thames Hospital is a hidden treasure; I feel well taken care of when I visit” whānau voice.
• Te Aroha health shuttle was acknowledged for its support in transporting patients to day appointments. 
• Need for health specialists to understand people’s backgrounds, this would make life easier for whānau. 
• “Put themselves in our shoes upon the first meeting and take another perspective other than a Drs one, I think this will help the Drs provide better information” whānau voice.
• Need for food security. 

Over the next three months, Khadine Topia from Astute Consultancy Limited will be supporting Te Tara o Te Whai to gather insights from Hapu Māma and whānau with tamariki under 5. Thank you to our community for their willingness to share their healthcare experience with our team.