Tēnā koutou, e ngā rau rangatira mā

Both Rachelle and Simon bring valuable perspectives and expertise to the Medical Council. I am excited to continue to work alongside them and the rest of Council. It is with enthusiasm that we approach our annual planning day with Council, as we review and refresh our strategic priorities.

I would like to recognise Dr Curtis Walker for his nine years of outstanding service. Working closely with Curtis in his role as Chair over the past five years has been a real pleasure. Curtis approached his role with a real sense of openness and willingness to engage and listen. He has earned the respect of our national and international colleagues and holds great mana. His dedication and leadership will have a lasting positive impact on our work, our organisation and the public of Aotearoa | New Zealand.

International Association of Medical Regulatory Authorities (IAMRA)

I recently had the privilege of meeting with Dr Tedros, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO). I attended the meeting as Chair of the International Association of Medical Regulatory Authorities (IAMRA), alongside Dr Humayun Chaudhry, IAMRA Secretary.

We signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise the international collaboration between the WHO and IAMRA on a range of goals that focus on effective medical regulation and the global health workforce. Discussions at the WHO focused on areas of common interest that we plan to work on together including the importance of making data that regulators hold accessible to inform workforce planning. We also discussed the current challenges with the global shortage of healthcare workers, education and health equity. Through increased collaboration with the WHO, we aim to contribute to better medical regulation globally to ensure a safe and competent global health workforce.

🔗 Find out more

Medical Council elections

Lastly, I want to remind all registered doctors to participate in the 2024 elections, where four medical members will be elected. Your vote is essential in shaping the future of the Medical Council. Voting ends at noon on Friday, 22 March 2024. Make your voice heard!

🔗 View the candidate booklet

He mihi mahana

Joan Simeon
Manukura | Chief Executive Officer

March edition