ASMS Direct

Still ‘G for Go’ for ASMS Annual Conference

We wanted to let you know that we are still planning for the 32nd ASMS Annual Conference to go ahead on 26-27 November at Te Papa in Wellington.

Given the uncertainty around Covid-19, a few members have been in touch to ask.

Our intention is that the conference will happen face-to-face, but we will be offering a webinar option for those who want to attend that way.

If you want to attend in person, but haven’t yet registered, you can do so here

Because the Covid situation is still fluid, we are booking flexi flights for all members.

Please be aware that unlike previous years, ASMS will not be able to manage and arrange additional accommodation and travel for those who want to stay extra nights in Wellington. Any delegate who wants to extend their stay in Wellington will have to organise that for themselves.

If you are interested in the webinar option please contact Cassey van Riel cvr@asms.nz to register.

Remember you can still apply for paid professional leave to attend the conference, whether in person or virtually through the webinar.

The theme of this year’s is Building the Workforce Pipeline, Stopping the Drain. We have an interesting line-up of guest speakers and of course it’s a great chance for members to actively take part in setting ASMS’ priorities and decision-making.

Canterbury DHB leadership crisis and protest

You may have been following stories in the media about the deepening leadership crisis at Canterbury DHB and concerns about the actions of the Board. About 100 ASMS members attended a meeting where it was decided to release an open letter to the people of Canterbury to outline their concerns and call for action. The letter was published in The Press and on Stuff. Read here. About 200 Christchurch Hospital staff also gathered outside a Board meeting yesterday in support of the executive team and in protest at planned cuts to services. It is great to see our members and those across the health workforce standing up for the health of their communities.

Speaking up

And speaking of speaking up, the action of members at Canterbury DHB is a great reminder that senior medical staff can and should speak up if they feel patient care is being compromised or to voice concerns about the way healthcare is being managed and delivered. You have the right under the MECA to speak publicly on issues you believe are important. We’ve put together a short video which outlines your rights and gives advice on how to go about it.

Membership survey

And finally a big thanks to all our you who took the time to respond to our first bi-annual membership survey. We ended up with a great response rate of 45%. We are in the process of analysing the results and will feedback to you soon.