The public health system and health promotion organizations of New Zealand

Abstract

In the article we present the lessons learned from studying the public health system and health promotion organizations of New Zealand, to determine the possible directions for further development of the Hungarian health promotion network. We briefly describe the main roles of the public administration levels and organizations in the public health system, present relevant strategies and legislation affecting the development and functions of the public health system, lastly, we summarize the tasks and activities of relevant organizations at national and community level. New Zealand's public health system shows similarities in regard to the financing and operating model of England and Australia. At national level, the Ministry of Health is responsible for setting priorities and formulating public health strategy. A separate organization deals with capacity planning and investment decisions. The key actors of the system are the District Health Boards which are responsible for planning, financing and coordination of services, as well as supporting co-operation and partnerships. Community healthcare providers develop collaborations with universities and research centres to develop public health human resources.