Te Tumu Waiora (Head Toward Wellness)
Health Coaches, Health Improvement Practitioners & Community Support Workers
INTERGRATED PRIMARY MENTAL HEALTH AND PHYSICAL HEALTH SUPPORT
At He Waka Tapu, we recognise that achieving holistic wellbeing involves addressing not only physical health but also wider mental health needs. Our dedicated team of kaimahi are here to provide comprehensive support tailored to your individual requirements.
We believe in an integrated and holistic approach to wellbeing, where primary and community services work together seamlessly to support your journey towards better health. Our community support services support mental well-being to lifestyle and behavior changes.
Te Tumu Waiora roles include Health Improvement Practitioners (HIP), Health Coaches (HC) and Support Workers. HIPs and HCs provide free, 15-30-minute sessions for anyone who is enrolled with the practice and eligible for public health services in New Zealand. The aim is to give people tools to manage whatever is causing their distress, and if needed, link people with services or organisations that may also be able to help. Often people only require one or two sessions, but they can have more if needed.
GPs and practice nurses introduce people to the HIP, Health Coach or Support Worker, either in person or virtually. Ideally, people see the HIP, Health Coach or Support Worker the same day, but if this is not possible, people can make another time that suits them. People can call their general practice to be booked on the appointment book of the HIP or Health Coach if there is a need to on that day. HIPs and Health Coaches record notes on the session in the general practices’ patient management system. Support Workers also record notes on the session.
Health Coaches support people to improve their health and wellbeing. They work with people/family to:
- Understand their health and wellbeing goals, whether it be mental, physical, emotional or social.
- Create a plan and set goals.
- Provide advice and information on how to manage their health and motivation to do so.
- Support people and whānau to access other services or organisations that may be able to help.
Health Coaches support people to make positive changes to their lifestyle - it may not be a medical issue, but something that is affecting their wellbeing that they want to address. As behavioural change can take time, Health Coaches are able to see people a number of times and will help people through the ups and downs of making changes.
REFERRAL PROCESS
Referrals for Health Coaches and Health Improvement Practitioners are managed via your GP, Appointments are often available for same day visits, so speak to your GP if you think this service will be helpful. All appointments are free of charge.
Our Support workers can be accessed via your GP, ERMS and or He Waka Tapu. Please contact reception for futher details.
