Update on changes to the national mortality review function (March 2023)
Read the March 2023 update about changes to the national mortality review function.
Advisory group established for implementation phase
The Health Quality & Safety Commission has recently appointed an advisory group to provide strategic advice as we implement changes to the national mortality review function. The group comprises Dr Fiona Cram, Dr Nick Baker, Professor David Tipene-Leach and Professor Alistair Woodward. The group will operate until 30 June 2023 when the new national mortality review function structure takes effect.
Design process for the national mortality review function
Work currently underway within the Commission marks the beginning of an initial design phase across the whole national mortality review function. There will be several parts to the changed function – the National Mortality Review Committee, subject matter expert groups, a management group (Commission staff), and development of a prioritisation framework. Te Pou, Wai 2575 principles and Māori data sovereignty principles continue to challenge us to critically think about each aspect of the change and what we can do differently to enhance our Te Tiriti responsiveness.
How the national mortality review function interacts with agencies will be an important part of its operating framework. The Commission recognises this as a real opportunity to better influence change more broadly across the system, and we believe this can be done from within all components of the Function.
Developing a mortality review prioritisation framework
In April we will begin the design of a prioritisation framework for mortality review. Initially a prototype will be developed, followed by iterative validations with key stakeholders to ensure it fulfils its purpose. The national mortality review committee will use the framework to provide advice to the Commission board from 1 July 2024. This may see some changes to mortality review focus areas.
National mortality review committee applications
In a few weeks we will be seeking expressions of interest for the National Mortality Review Committee which will be stood up from 1 July 2023.
Sector support
We welcome sector input and support over the coming months as we implement the changes, engaging with as many people as possible.