Mai i te Tumuaki | From the Chair
This will be my final MCNZ News article as Chair, having reached the statutory limit of three terms as a Council member, five years of which were served as Council’s Chair.Kua hua te Marama, ka whiti mai anō te Rā
The Moon has completed its full cycle, and the Sun will shine once more.
The past nine years have been an incredible privilege, serving alongside many Council colleagues who share a commitment to the advancement of medical standards and the betterment of healthcare for our communities. In particular, I want to acknowledge Andrew Connolly, Laura Mueller, and Susan Hughes as Council Rangatira who supported me early on.
I express my thanks to every Council member and staff member for their dedication and mahi throughout the years, including and especially to Joan Simeon as Council’s Chief Executive Officer. Your collective efforts have not only upheld the integrity of our profession but have also contributed significantly to the enhancement of medical practice and patient care. Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated triumphs, and continually strived for excellence.
Important achievements have been the implementation of cultural safety standards and health equity as key professional expectations; how the medical profession rose to the challenges of COVID-19; and ensuring the Council is in a strong financial position. We have seen continued growth in the number of practising doctors – up by 2,498 (17%) over the past five years, with new registrations from Aotearoa and all parts of the world.
As I step down, I am confident that February’s Council elections will result in four dedicated doctors joining the other Council members to lead the Council’s work on behalf of the public we serve. The landscape of healthcare is dynamic and constantly presents new challenges, and opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth. I know that the incoming leadership and Council kaimahi will navigate these changes with resilience and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice.
In closing, I extend my thanks to all the clinicians, researchers, educators, leaders and colleagues for your work at the frontline of healthcare and for your leadership and expertise across the many organisations you are part of. May the future bring even greater advancements in medical excellence and may you all continue to contribute your skills and knowledge to the betterment of healthcare in Aotearoa.
Nō reira, kia rawe o koutou haerenga katoa.
Dr Curtis Walker
Tumuaki | Chair