West Coast New Zealand

Commitment to quality care 

The aim of the West Coast District Health Board (DHB) is to become a “Centre of Excellence” for rural health services, and it is an increasingly important training centre for health professionals hoping to work in rural areas.

The DHB is committed to providing innovative service models and making intelligent use of technology, to provide health services to its widely spread population.  It also works closely and collaboratively with the neighbouring Canterbury DHB to meet the healthcare needs of the West Coast population

The DHB employs over 1,000 people and  is fully involved in providing health care in the community, with 14  general practices / health clinics spread  throughout the Coast . Their goal is to keep people well or treat them early and in the community if possible. This is done in partnership with the West Coast Public Health Organisation (PHO) and Community  and Public Health as well as other key service  providers.

Grey Base Hospital, located in Greymouth, provides a range of medical, mental health and surgical services from both resident and visiting specialists, although people who need highly specialised services  may  be transferred to larger centres.

The Rescue Helicopter and Air Ambulance Service provide fast emergency response  for transport both throughout the Coast and to other medical facilities. 

The network of general practice teams throughout the West Coast are supported by  the West Coast Primary Health Organisation.   They  provide a range of subsidised and free primary health care services designed to meet the unique needs of the West Coast.

Pharmacy and Dental services operate in Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika.

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