I am not a career politician but a Medical Research professional working in the field for the last 20 years with hands-on knowledge about issues in the health sector.
I would stand up fearlessly and courageously and work hard to achieve the best outcome for the Canterbury community.
If elected, my focus would be on free dental care (basic care such as tooth extraction and treatment of infection or pain), free parking for at least two hours in the hospital premises for visitors by including a multi-storeyed or underground car park in the new $600 million development.
I will negotiate with the City Council to have free buses to and from the hospital connecting various locations around Christchurch and Canterbury.
I will target hidden killers of the Christchurch Earthquakes, address the alarmingly higher suicide rates especially among the youth and middle-aged people and the scary increase in the incidence of mental health cases.
Better health support
I think these objectives can be achieved with the addition of well-trained Health Support workers and Councillors.
Having lost 85% hearing in an accident, I feel the pain and grief of a disability. I am therefore committed to taking care of all less fortunate disabled people in our society.
I also believe in providing improved healthcare for senior citizens.
Staff in our hospital, laboratories, clinics and emergency services are not just doing a job but risking their lives to serve the community.
I will reward all members of staff at the Christchurch District Health Board with better pay, work facilities and support services to encourage them to continue their quality services to the people of the Canterbury region.
Nutritious diet and exercise would be the best capital to be invested in the health sector, with improved health, happy people and reduced spending on treatment as the outcomes.
I would advocated for a Fitness Centre with public access and better catering service of patients in the new development of the Christchurch Hospital.
I love meeting people and sharing ideas and I would be delighted to have any opportunity to discuss the concerned issues with you.
Dr George Abraham is our Christchurch Correspondent and a contestant to be a Member in the Christchurch District Health Board. He can be contacted on (03) 3381333 or 021-2523373.
Email: ge.abraham@hotmail.com
