Asian and other ethnic populations account for a significant proportion of Aotearoa’s population (more than 18% as at Census 2018; almost one in five now) and these populations are also increasing at a fast pace. Although some Asian and ethnic groups have higher life expectancy at birth, lower rate of infant mortality and lower mortality rates for some conditions, we must acknowledge these groups are extremely diverse in culture, language, health status, settlement history, and unmet health needs. We will have to develop systematic rather than ‘piecemeal’ national health strategy and implementation plans at regional/district level for Asian and ethnic communities to maintain the outstanding results and to address those areas where issues exist already or are emerging particularly for some Asian and ethnic sub-groups, former refugees and asylum seekers. It is highly recommended to apply an (vertical) equity lens to Asian and ethnic populations, to understand the unique health needs of these sub-populations and proportionate investment of resources via Asian and ethnic health research, to set up dedicated regional/district level Asian and ethnic health divisions with commissioning powers and empower community organisations for better health outcomes, patient experiences and well-being.

Over the past 2 years, there have been a couple of milestone statements published/released by the Asian caucus of the Public Health Association (PHA) NZ or core members of the Asian caucus, as follows:

Recommendations on the health system reform from the Asian Caucus of the PHA (https://lnkd.in/gg4W-64C)
 
Statement on the health system reform for Asian and ethnic communities (https://lnkd.in/dJBkSC4w)

Pae Ora: ensuring a healthy future for all – including Asian and Ethnic minorities
(https://lnkd.in/e58_CVur)

This petition is built on the previous work of the PHA, academics and community organisations, requesting that "the House of Representatives urge Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand to develop a national, entity-level policy/strategy and regional/district implementation plans to improve the health and well-being of Asian and other ethnic minority population groups". 

You can sign the petition here - closes June 10 2023