Health of Older People in New Zealand

Projects

Update on the National DHB interRAI Implementation Project

Implementation Plan

The feedback on the Implementation Plan was received in mid February 09 and collated comments were circulated back to DHBs. The vast majority of the feedback was positive with DHBs endorsing the concepts in the Funding Model and National Criteria. Many DHBs comments showed that they were embracing a collaborative approach and were keen to get on with implementation. The major focus of the Plan at the moment is determining the Lead DHB. It is likely this will be managed by an EOI which will begin shortly. Once the amendments to the Plan are finalised a copy will be distributed back to DHBs.

Funding

A Business Plan has been completed as part of internal Ministry processes. This included a plan for operational funding. The plan has now been approved through relevant processes; including the Funding Board, and this will proceed via CFA as described in the Implementation Plan. DHBs due to implement in the 08/09 year, Waikato, Tairawhiti, West Coast and Sth Canterbury DHBs are being contacted to finalise details. We are now in the process of getting the Capital approved through Ministry and the Treasury procedures.

Hosting

In the feedback about the Implementation Plan many DHBs questioned the need for multiple ‘host’ DHBs and the implications for multiple databases. The DHB CIO group is preparing a proposal to the Project Advisory Group relating to the recommended number of hosts and long term management of the software. The CIO recommendations are unlikely to impact the implementation timetable.

Communication

Several steps are underway to support communication about interRAI and the Implementation Project.

1. interRAI methodology user group
   An interRAI user group established under the auspices and guidance of the New Zealand InterRAI Fellow Dr Nigel Millar, meets monthly by teleconference. The group is currently comprised of members of DHBs and associated organisations who are already implementing interRAI. The group now offers to widen the membership to DHBs who are yet to implement. Terms of Reference and the teleconference numbers are available from the interRAI Project Manager.
   
2. interRAI newsletter
   The Australian interRAI Coordinating Centre is developing a regular newsletter for Australia and New Zealand. The newsletter will share current initiatives and research information about interRAI between the two countries as well as other topics of international interest. If you or a colleague would like to be on the mailing list please provide the interRAI Project Manager with your contact details.
   
3. Project meetings
   The project Advisory Group is planning meetings with DHBs to share detailed information and/or lead discussion about specific implementation issues. These meeting are likely to be a combination of face to face and videoconferencing. More details about these meeting will be provided soon.

For comment or questions about the interRAI project please contact the Project Manager on 03 372 3042 or 027 212 7308, or by emailing olderpeople@moh.govt.nz






Page last updated: 15 April 2009