In partnership with PACT (an NGO which provides a broad range of support to people with mental health issues), the clinic has been set up to better integrate the clinic’s services into the community.
Initially, the clinic’s services will primarily focus on medication support, such as administering of an anti-psychotic long-acting intramuscular injection and post-injection observation. The range of services available at the clinic is likely to be extended in future.
“The new clinic offers a more comfortable and therapeutic environment for our clients with a kitchen space and a variety of activities – such as arts and crafts – to participate in during post-monitoring,” says MHAIDS Adult Community Mental Health Team (Hutt South), Local Service Leader, Dr Shirley-Ann Maritz.
“Clinics like this focus on the prevention and early intervention of mental health issues, which is one of our key objectives. It’s a great example of NGOs and Health NZ working together to deliver care closer to the community to those who need it, reducing barriers to treatment to achieve better outcomes.”
She says more wellness clinics of this type are planned further down the track.
“It’s brilliant to see this collaboration resulting in the safe, welcoming and therapeutic space we see here,” Minister Doocey says. “It’s about focusing on access and having a joined up system where people can get the help they need.”
