Meeting with Martin Chadwick

The Physiotherapy Trust and other leaders of the profession met with Dr Martin Chadwick on 8 September 2023. Martin is the Chief Allied Health Professions Officer at the Ministry of Health. He presented on the various matters within the Ministry of Health, Te Aka Whai Ora, and Te Whatu Ora. He provided an overview of the interactions that may affect physiotherapy in New Zealand and helped us to understand how physiotherapists in New Zealand can make beneficial changes to the health of New Zealand. There were around 12 people at this hui.

After Martin's presentation, he provided clear answers to the Trust's concerns on the state of physiotherapy in New Zealand. It was felt by members of the Trust that change should be driven by physiotherapists and to make change, various entities and people who can make legislative or policy change should be approached. There is a lot of opportunity for physiotherapists in New Zealand to step up and help in the health system.

The Board, Physiotherapy Schools and the Trust should be able to work together to make real change within the system.

The Trust will continue to liaise with the various groups and Martin to improve the health of New Zealanders through physiotherapy.