Analyzing Government Strategies for Addressing Maori Health Inequities

This report investigates obesity as a significant health issue among Maori people in New Zealand, highlighting the persistent health disparities despite decades of research and government efforts. It examines the role of the central government in addressing these inequities, considering governance and management strategies, and the involvement of Maori in health service planning. The report analyzes prior government policies and strategies, such as the Primary Healthcare Strategy, developing Maori Health Providers, the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000, the Healthy Eating Action (HEHA) Strategy, Whanau Ora, and Healthy Families New Zealand, evaluating their impact on reducing health inequities. It provides a rationale for recommendations aimed at improving health outcomes for Maori, addressing factors like socioeconomic status, discrimination, and behavioral risk factors. The analysis includes both national and local health statistics to provide a comprehensive context of the issue, and references to relevant research and government documents.