About the Ministry of Health

The Ministry of Health aims to ensure that the health and disability support system works for all New Zealanders.

As principal advisor to the government on health and disability policy, we lead and support the sector to achieve better health for New Zealanders, and reduce inequalities.

The Minister of Health has overall responsibility for the health and disability system.

What the Ministry does

The Ministry of Health works as policy advisor, legislator, regulator and funder. Our main responsibilities are:

• Strategy, policy and system performance - provide expert advice to government on improving the health of New Zealanders, reducing inequalities, and increasing participation and independence.
• Lead nationwide planning, coordination and collaboration across the sector.
• Monitor and improve the performance of health sector Crown entities and District Health Boards, which are responsible for the health of their local communities.
• Fund and purchase health and disability support services on behalf of the government.
• Service Ministers’ offices and ministerial advisory committees.
• Administer and monitor service agreements and payments for health benefits.
• Collect and analyse health information.
• Administer legislation and regulations.

Priorities for the next few years

The Statement of Intent 2008-2011 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.

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.

Legislation we are responsible for

The Ministry of Health administers 26 Acts of Parliament and 144 Regulations.

Ministry’s change and development programme

The Ministry of Health is undergoing a change and development programme to help it achieve a higher-performing health sector and improved service to the Minister of Health.

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Related information

• Find out more about New Zealand’s health and disability system
• Learn about Health Targets, which have been established to focus health sector resources and improve performance in 10 key areas
• Browse job vacancies at the Ministry

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Page last updated: 26 June 2008.