Advice and Support

Kaiatawhai Service role

Patients and their whanau have the right to make informed choices for their wellbeing and are encouraged to do so.

The Kaiatawhai is there to assist whanau in their decision making process by ensuring that the information, support and advocacy is given in a culturally appropriate manner and in accordance with Tairawhiti District Health policies.If you would like to access the Kaiatawhai during your stay please ask a member of our team.

 

Social Workers

Social workers assist patients and their families with any problems associated with hospitalisation and their discharge; in particular people who require alternative care. The social workers are a source of information and can help in many areas, including the patient and his/her family's ability to manage in the home following hospitalisation and/or significant change in their well being. Some patient/family issues dealt with include housing; family issues; community services; finances; care and support; domestic violence; grief; emotional trauma; care and protection.

They work as part of a multi-disciplinary team within the hospital but they are also available to respond to referrals from community sources, e.g. general practitioners, service providers, rest homes, family members and helping agencies. If during your stay you would like to speak to a social worker please ask a member of our team.

 

Chaplaincy Service

The Chaplain is available to all patients at all times. You do not need to belong to a church to call a Chaplain. If at any time you wish to see a Chaplain, please ask your nurse to contact the Chaplaincy Service.

You are welcome to visit the chapel at any time. The hospital chapel holds fortnightly service on Thursdays at 4pm. All are welcome. If you wish to attend and are unable to go independently, arrangements can be made through the Chaplaincy Service to take you there. Please ask your nurse to contact the Chaplaincy Service.

 

Consumers Rights

The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights 1996 specifies patients’ rights when receiving healthcare services. These are:

• Right 1:    Right to be treated with respect
• Right 2:    Right to freedom from discrimination, coercion, harassment and exploitation
• Right 3:    Right to dignity and independence
• Right 4:    Right to services of an appropriate standard
• Right 5:    Right to effective communication
• Right 6:    Right to be fully informed
• Right 7:    Right to make an informed choice and give informed consent
• Right 8:    Right to support
• Right 9:    Rights in respect of teaching or research
• Right 10:  Right to complain

Brochures outlining these rights are held in all Waikato DHB clinical areas. Further information may be obtained.

 

Health and Disability Advocacy

If you want to know more about your rights when using health and disability services, get questions answered or make a complaint, click here to find an independent advocate. Independent advocates offer education and training for anyone about consumer rights and provider duties.