Blog

Statement from WBOP PHO: It’s About Patients, Not PHOs

The recent media focus on PHO transitions in the Bay of Plenty risks missing the deeper issue at stake. This is not a dispute between PHOs, but a structural shift that appears to be driven by large corporates seeking to reshape the system in ways that serve their business models, not necessarily patient care. WBOP … Read more

PHO shift raises concerns for 46,000 patients in the Bay

WBOP PHO leaders voice questions about timing, transparency, and community impact A planned move by several local general practices to switch Primary Health Organisation (PHO) affiliation has sparked concern for more than 46,000 people in the Bay of Plenty. Leaders at the Western Bay of Plenty PHO (WBOP PHO) say the move raises urgent questions … Read more

Group of smiling people of different ages and backgrounds standing by a lake, holding up peace signs. Promotional banner text reads: “The cervical screening self-test is here. It’s a game-changer!”

Free Cervical Screening Clinics Rolling Out Across the Bay

Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) is running free cervical screening clinics in community spaces across the region. These drop-in clinics are part of our ongoing effort to make cervical screening more accessible, more comfortable, and easier to fit into everyday life. If you’ve never been screened, are overdue, or are looking … Read more

Te Rerenga: April 2025 Edition – Supporting Growth

Welcome to the April 2025 edition of Te Rerenga! This issue shines a light on WBOP PHO’s commitment to strengthening the local health workforce, with the return of CME/CNE events, de-escalation and diabetes education training, and the first-ever eCALD sessions held in Tauranga. These opportunities are helping equip our network with the tools and connections … Read more

How new roles in general practice are making a difference in our community

WBOP PHO’s CPCT story featured in GPNZ national report on extended primary care teams A recent report from general practice New Zealand (GPNZ) shows how extended primary care teams are improving access to care across Aotearoa. The document gathers real-life stories and highlights the success of the Comprehensive Primary and Community Teams (CPCT) initiative, which … Read more

WBOP PHO Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency and the Health of our Community

In response to a recently circulated report that questions the role and financial practices of Primary Health Organisations, Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) wishes to address several misleading claims, while reaffirming our commitment to transparency, responsible resource management, and the health of our community. The independent document titled PHO Benchmark Comparison … Read more

A positive step for general practice and patient access

WBOP PHO welcomes renewed focus on primary care

The government’s recent announcements on primary care signal a welcome shift towards strengthening general practice and improving patient access. While further details are awaited regarding implementation, Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) recognises this as a significant step forward. Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown recently outlined several new investments aimed at enhancing … Read more

Te Rerenga: February 2025 Edition – Empowering Primary Care

Welcome to the February 2025 edition of Te Rerenga! This issue highlights the empowering impact of the WBOP Health Workforce Development Fund, which supports kaimahi in the primary and community healthcare sectors as they pursue further education and career growth. We’re excited to announce that applications for Round Two of the fund are open until … Read more

Image with the title Our position on the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill

WBOP PHO Submits Formal Opposition to the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill

The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) submitted a formal opposition to the proposed Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill. The WBOP PHO, which plays a key role in the region’s healthcare services, asserts that Te Tiriti o Waitangi is a living framework that continues to guide the healthcare system, through … Read more

WBOP Workforce Development Fund now open for applications

Applications for the WBOP Workforce Development Fund – Round Two are open until the 10th of March 2025. This funding supports kaimahi in the primary and community healthcare sectors who are seeking further education, skill development, or additional support to advance their careers. To apply, visit the the Workforce Development Fund application page here. Not … Read more