A Rotorua-based Maori health provider says it worked tirelessly to secure one of the country's top health quality accreditations, partly to prove it's as good as mainstream providers.
Korowai Aroha Health centre has been listed as a Cornerstone accredited firm by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners.
It recognises organisations that meet high standards in all areas, including in service delivery and facilities maintenance.
Korowai Aroha chief executive Hariata Vercoe says they spent 18-months monitoring and developing staff to meet standards set by the Cornerstone programme.
She says it was important it could assure its patients, 80% of whom are Maori, that it provides quality care.
Ms Vercoe says there appears to be a perception in the community that Maori providers are not as good as mainstream ones, and suggests the centre's recognition will provide assurance for its clients.
She says another incentive has been a goal to set up a training venture to encourage Maori doctors to train at Korowai Aroha.
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners says it knows of at least three Maori providers, which have gained the Cornerstone accreditation.
