About the Ministry of Health

What the Ministry does

The Ministry of Health works as policy adviser, regulator, funder and service provider. Our main responsibilities are:

strategy, policy and system performance – providing advice on improving health outcomes, reducing inequalities and increasing participation, nationwide planning, co-ordination and collaboration across the sectors
servicing Ministers’ offices and ministerial advisory committees
monitoring and improving the performance of health sector Crown entities and District Health Boards, which are responsible for the health of their local communities
funding and purchasing of health and disability support services on behalf of the Crown including maintenance of service agreements, particularly for public health, disability support services and other services that are retained centrally
administration of legislation and regulations, and meeting legislative requirements
information services
payment services.

Priorities for the next few years

The Statement of Intent 2009-2012 outlines the Ministry’s priorities for the next few years. It shows how we will work to support the health system and provide leadership to achieve better health, fairer treatment and greater independence for all New Zealanders.

Strategic direction

Within the legislative framework set by the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act, the strategic direction of the sector has been set by two overarching strategic documents, the New Zealand Health Strategy and the New Zealand Disability Strategy (www.odi.govt.nz).

These two strategies are supported by other more targeted strategies that provide guidance and advice in areas such as primary health care and Māori health.

Related information
Key publications that set out and report on accountability, performance and strategic direction.

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