MOH Presentation to HD Conference

Dorothy Tortell, Social Worker from HD Association Wellington approached the Ministry with a proposal in late 2000 for the establishment of a specialist HD residential facility that would meet the needs of clients in this region.

MOH representatives met with Dorothy in February 2001. At this time the current needs of this client group were identified as follows: 12 HD clients were in under-65 physical disability residential care facilities in Wairarapa/Wellington.  14 clients were living at home with support but it was expected they would eventually require residential care.  The behavioural component of HD is challenging for the client, family and providers. Behaviours can be disruptive, inappropriate and embarrassing. Current PD services provide adequate physical care, however the mixture of HD and non HD clients does cause some problems and added stress. Genetic and inter - generational nature of HD means that their particular counselling and support needs are unlike other disability types. HD Association suggested an 8-10 bed service with additional respite services available.  The Locality Team agreed that a service gap existed after further discussion with Needs Assessment Service Coordination agencies. In March 2001 the Locality Team put a proposal to the Disability Services Directorate Senior Management Team, which was accepted. In May 2001 the HD Association was informed that the development of a service had been approved and that a tender process would be initiated. The Ministry indicated that they would appreciate the Association's support and involvement during the tender process and Dorothy Tortell was part of the RFP evaluation panel. The RFP was advertised at the end of June 2001. Proposals were received and evaluated and site visits undertaken. In September 2001 Health Care NZ was chosen as the preferred provider. Since then plans have been developed by Health Care NZ in consultation with Huntington’s Association and their clients/families. These are still being finalised, however, a site has been found and it is expected this exciting new development will be opened in March 2003.

Sandie Waddell
Senior Locality Manager
Wellington Locality
Disability Services Directorate
Ministry of Health