DORA - Digital On Road Access
Exploring health apps with DORA in the Eastern Bay of Plenty
From Monday 21 October to Saturday 2 November, DORA Te Waka Matihiko Hauora, a mobile learning centre, will be in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, helping people join the growing numbers who are benefitting from having online access to their health records.
Most medical practices throughout New Zealand offer an online health app to their patients, with many using the popular Manage My Health or myindici 2.0 platforms. These apps give patients access to their health records such as blood test results and enable them to order repeat prescriptions as well as book appointments with their GPs.
Online health services are available to anyone with a smartphone, tablet or computer and internet connection. However, it is up to individual medical practices to determine the scope of services that they can provide, so while the trainers on DORA explain what is possible, everyone is encouraged to check what their own GPs offer when they sign up.
Eastern Bay Primary Health Alliance (EBPHA) Clinical Director, Dr Kerry Taylor, says "As a healthcare network, our priority is to empower everyone with the resources and knowledge to take control of their health. Easy access to health information and digital applications enables whānau to make informed decisions, stay connected with healthcare providers, and receive timely, appropriate care. By embracing digital solutions, we can improve health equity, enhance accessibility, and create a system that truly reflects and respects the unique needs of all our communities. This is a great opportunity for people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty to get more help accessing their health information online.”
Libraries in the Eastern Bay of Plenty play a significant role in helping their communities get online and become competent in the use of apps and websites. During DORA’s visit, library staff from Ōpōtiki and Kawerau will be helping people access online health apps as well as other resources such as Healthify.DORA’s visit is being supported by the Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa (DIAA), Ōpōtiki and Kawerau libraries as well as EBPHA. Library staff will be providing the training on DORA, which will be open to the public at various locations each day. No booking is needed. Just drop in and the team will give you whatever help you need in using your digital devices and accessing your online health records.
The Operations Director for DIAA, Laurence Zwimpfer, said how pleased he was to have the support of staff from local community organisations. “We understand how important it is for everyone to have ongoing help with their digital technologies whenever they need it. So, for those who miss DORA’s brief visit, it is good to know that there are local organisations like libraries that can provide ongoing help.”
DORA’s Eastern Bay of Plenty Itinerary:
- Mon 21 Oct: Ōpeke Marae, Ōtara (2-5pm)
- Tues 22 Oct: Te Kura o Tōrere (9:30am – 12 noon) & Maraenui (1:30 – 5pm)
- Wed 23 Oct: Cape Runaway (9:30 – 12 noon) & Raukōkore (1-5pm)
- Thurs 24 Oct: Te Kaha (9 – 11am), Hawai (11:30am – 3pm) & Ōpape (3:30 – 5pm)
- Fri 25 Oct: Boat Ramp, 189 Ōhiwa Loop Rd. Waiōtahe (9-11am), Roimata (11:30am – 3pm) and Kutarere School (3:30-5pm)
- Tues 29 Oct – Sat 2 Nov: Kawerau Library (10am – 3pm)
For further information, contact:
Julia Burrup, Manager – Te Tāhuhu o Te Rangi, Ōpōtiki, juliab@odc.govt.nz