Equity matters in diabetes care
Kaitiaki Hauora spokesperson Louisa Wall has told Radio Waatea that recent debate over access to diabetes medications highlights the importance of keeping health equity at the centre of decision-making.
Māori and Pacific communities continue to experience higher rates of diabetes and related health complications. Louisa says improving outcomes requires more than simply funding medicines. It also means ensuring people can access culturally safe care, timely treatment, and the support needed to manage long-term conditions.
She says Te Tiriti obligations require decision-makers to focus on equitable outcomes and ensure Māori voices are part of health decisions from the start.
Louisa Wall is not one to mince her words. Listen to this cracking interview with Louisa and Dale Husband on Radio Waatea discussing diabetes, health equity, and Te Tiriti obligations in healthcare.
Diabetes continues to disproportionately affect Māori and Pacific communities. Improving outcomes requires a health system that is properly funded, honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and ensures everyone can access the care they need regardless of their ability to pay.
Our priorities
Kaitiaki Hauora is calling for:
• Fund public health properly – so everyone gets care when they need it.
• Honour Te Tiriti – ensuring Māori lead on equity in the health system.
• Keep healthcare public – so care stays for people, not profit.
The alliance is supported by a growing number of organisations across the country, including Iwi Māori Partnership Boards, major health unions, patient advocacy groups, youth organisations, and community health networks. Its work is collective, collaborative, and centred on ensuring that public healthcare remains accessible, equitable, and designed in partnership with the communities it serves.