Home > Review Articles > Ethnic disparities > The enrolment gap: who is not enrolling with primary health organizations in Aotearoa New Zealand and what are the implications?

The enrolment gap: who is not enrolling with primary health organizations in Aotearoa New Zealand and what are the implications?

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 91
Authors:
  • Irurzun-Lopez M et al.
Summary:

An analysis of 2015-2019 administrative data has found that enrolments in primary health organisations in New Zealand remain below full population coverage, with inequities between socio-demographic and geographic groups. In 2019, approximately 6% of the population were not enrolled. Enrolment rates were lower for Māori than for New Zealand European/Other groups, and people aged 15-24 years were the least likely to be enrolled. Enrolments were highest in the most affluent geographical areas, and were lowest for the Auckland District Health Board area.

Comment:
The way in which primary care services enrol people in Aotearoa is considered an exemplar internationally, as it helps monitor access to healthcare. Māori and young people do not appear to have access to funded primary care based on the data reported here. New models of care (e.g. online services) may attract some unenrolled, but should also monitor for Māori inequities.
Reference: Int J Equity Health. 2021 Apr 6;20(1):93.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

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