Primary Health Care Dietitian

The purpose of this position which commenced in February 2006 is to provide a comprehensive and culturally appropriate clinical dietetic service to meet the needs of patients enrolled with Manaia PHO. The position is employed by Manaia Health PHO and the dietitian works 0.5 with patients referred from general practice, and 0.5 with Maori health providers (Hauora Whanui and Ki a Ora Ngatiwai).
 
Current work with the Maori health providers covers a range of activities, including individual / group sessions with clients / whanau, staff education, development / provision of appropriate resources that staff can use with clients, participation in health promotion activities, and providing supermarket tours for clients and staff.
 
Work with general practice is based on managing referrals received for individual patients. Following the initial assessment, care plans are developed with the patient, and on-going visits arranged. The majority of referrals are concerned with patients living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, CVD, CHF and COPD, as well as bowel conditions and diet related anaemias. Of note is that 66 (56%) of referrals received have included patients with diabetes, either as a single diagnosis, or in combination with other diseases or obesity.