Tauranga

๐Ÿ‘ถ

Child and Maternal Health

Support services and information about pediatric care, maternity care, and family health planning.

Sections

1. Overview of Healthcare in Tauranga

Tauranga is part of New Zealand's publicly funded healthcare system, which provides free or subsidized healthcare services to residents and eligible visitors. The Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) oversees healthcare services in Tauranga and the surrounding region. Maternal and child health services are a priority, with a focus on preventive care, early intervention, and support for families.

2. Maternal Health Services

Maternal health services in Tauranga cater to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. These services are provided by a combination of public healthcare providers, private practitioners, and community organizations.

Key Services:

  • Pregnancy Care (Antenatal Care):

    • Free maternity care is available for eligible residents through the public system.
    • Services include regular checkups, ultrasounds, blood tests, and screenings for conditions like gestational diabetes.
    • Care is typically provided by a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), who can be a midwife, obstetrician, or general practitioner (GP) with obstetric training.
    • Tauranga Hospital offers antenatal clinics and specialist care for high-risk pregnancies.

  • Childbirth Services:

    • Tauranga Hospital has a modern maternity unit with birthing suites and postnatal care facilities.
    • Women can choose to give birth at the hospital, at a birthing center, or at home (with a midwife's support).
    • Pain relief options, including epidurals, are available at the hospital.

  • Postnatal Care:

    • After birth, mothers receive home visits from their LMC for up to six weeks.
    • Support includes breastfeeding assistance, newborn care guidance, and maternal mental health checks.

Associated Costs:

  • Maternity care is free for eligible residents and citizens.
  • Private obstetricians or additional services (e.g., private scans) may incur costs, typically ranging from NZD 2,000โ€“5,000.

How to Access:

  • Register with an LMC early in pregnancy (ideally before 12 weeks). You can find an LMC through the Ministry of Health's "Find Your Midwife" website or by asking your GP.
  • If you are not eligible for free healthcare, you will need to pay for services. Travel insurance or private health insurance is recommended for non-residents.

3. Child Health Services

Child health services in Tauranga focus on preventive care, immunizations, and developmental monitoring to ensure children grow up healthy and thrive.

Key Services:

  • Well Child/Tamariki Ora Program:

    • A free program for all children from birth to age 5.
    • Includes regular health checks, growth and development assessments, and parenting support.
    • Delivered by Plunket (a well-known child health organization) and other providers.

  • Immunizations:

    • Free vaccinations are provided as part of the National Immunization Schedule.
    • Vaccines protect against diseases like measles, whooping cough, and polio.
    • Administered by GPs or public health nurses.

  • General Pediatric Care:

    • GPs provide primary care for children, including treatment for illnesses and minor injuries.
    • Tauranga Hospital has a pediatric department for specialized care and emergencies.

  • Dental Care:

    • Free basic dental care is available for children up to age 18.
    • Services are provided through the Community Oral Health Service.

Associated Costs:

  • Most child health services are free for eligible residents.
  • GP visits for children under 14 are free at participating clinics.
  • Non-residents may need to pay for services, with costs varying by provider.

How to Access:

  • Enroll your child with a GP soon after birth.
  • Register for the Well Child/Tamariki Ora program through your LMC or Plunket.
  • Immunizations are scheduled automatically, but you can confirm with your GP.

4. Key Healthcare Facilities in Tauranga

Tauranga has several hospitals, clinics, and community health centers that provide maternal and child health services.

Major Hospitals:

  • Tauranga Hospital:
    • The main public hospital in the region.
    • Offers maternity, pediatric, and emergency services.
    • Address: 829 Cameron Road, Tauranga South, Tauranga 3112.

Birthing Centers:

  • Bethlehem Birthing Centre:
    • A private birthing facility offering a home-like environment for low-risk births.
    • Free for eligible women under a public contract.
    • Address: 16 Bethlehem Road, Bethlehem, Tauranga 3110.

Community Health Providers:

  • Plunket:

    • Provides Well Child/Tamariki Ora services, parenting support, and breastfeeding advice.
    • Plunket clinics are located throughout Tauranga.

  • Ngฤ Mataapuna Oranga:

    • A Mฤori health provider offering culturally appropriate maternal and child health services.

5. Important Local Considerations

  • Eligibility for Free Healthcare:

    • Free or subsidized healthcare is available to New Zealand citizens, residents, and some work visa holders. Visitors and non-residents will need to pay for services.
    • Check your eligibility on the Ministry of Health website.

  • Cultural Sensitivity:

    • Tauranga has a significant Mฤori population, and healthcare providers often incorporate Mฤori health practices and values (hauora) into their services.
    • If you are Mฤori, you can request culturally appropriate care through providers like Ngฤ Mataapuna Oranga.

  • Language Support:

    • Interpreters are available at hospitals and clinics for non-English speakers. Notify your healthcare provider in advance if you need this service.

  • Emergency Services:

    • In case of a medical emergency, dial 111 for an ambulance.
    • Tauranga Hospitalโ€™s emergency department is open 24/7.

6. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Enroll with a GP: Register with a local GP as soon as possible to access primary care for yourself and your children.
  • Health Insurance: If you are not eligible for free healthcare, consider purchasing private health insurance to cover maternity and child health costs.
  • Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the Well Child/Tamariki Ora schedule and the National Immunization Schedule to ensure your child receives timely care.
  • Community Support: Join local parenting groups or attend Plunket parenting classes to connect with other families and learn about local resources.

Taurangaโ€™s healthcare system is well-equipped to support mothers and children, offering a mix of public and private services to meet diverse needs. By understanding the available services and how to access them, you can ensure the best possible care for yourself and your family.