As the weeks pass in my role as the MP for Rangitikei, it seems to get busier and busier. Much of the electorate work revolves around health, education and matters concerning social welfare.
Health is probably the subject that concerns citizens more than any other and I have had anumber of positive comments about the treatment patients have received in the Wanganui and Palmerston North hospitals in recent weeks. It is particularly encouraging to have this comment in light of the possible changes to women's health services in Wanganui.
This matter is of particular concern to the people of the Rangitikei and is being viewed with great interest in the west of the electorate. I totally support the comments made by the Whanganui MP, Chester Borrows, that the region's health boards should be collaborating to ensure that everybody can access services.
One of the most difficult items for people in public service to manage is change and, while change can be uncomfortable when announced, it usually produces a more positive result when completed. However, in rural New Zealand, we may end up with increased travel costs, delays and inconvenience, and must make our point around these matters when considering or submitting on any proposed changes. This is a challenge for us and we must find solutions to it, as clearly we will struggle to hold services in our local areas as population continues to decline.
Last week, the closure of the McMahon Health Clinic in Waiouru was announced by the New Zealand Army, to take effect from July 31. Patients have been encouraged to enrol with a general practice of their choice.
This will focus the minds of people in the Waiouru/ Waimarino areas firmly on the development of the new St John Ambulance centre in Ohakune, and what possible opportunities this will create for new services in the area.
One last thing: DoC's Kaimanawa wild horse muster takes place later this month and anyone wishing to register an interest should do so as soon as possible.
