The Whanganui District Health Board met yesterday with the liquidator who explained his role in the management of the voluntary liquidation of Otaihape Health Limited. 

The district health board has also had a successful meeting with the Whanganui Regional Primary Health Organisation (WRPHO) management in relation to the continuity of primary care services.

Whanganui District Health Board Chief Executive Julie Patterson said her first priority was to support the aged care residents and their families.

“We have contacted the majority of the residents’ families to arrange a time to meet with them to outline what has happened,” Mrs Patterson said.

“Due to recent publicity surrounding Otaihape Health Limited, many were aware of the likelihood that there would be changes to the care of their loved ones.

“Most people were grateful to be contacted and pleased to be given the opportunity to meet so soon.”

Over the next two days, the board chair and senior management staff will meet with the families who have taken up this opportunity.

The community has also been invited to attend a public meeting at 5pm, Wednesday 17 November in the Taihape Area School Hall.

“We are committed to being open with the community and will continue to issue frequent media releases as information comes to hand and decisions are made,” said Mrs Patterson.

Whanganui District Health Board is continuing with its contingency planning to ensure service continuity in the short term.