Digital health leaders receive Public Service Medals

SECTOR UPDATE 

Two data and digital health leaders who played a vital role in the Covid-19 response were amongst 35 New Zealanders to receive Te Tohu Ratonga Tūmatanui o Aotearoa - The New Zealand Public Service Medal, for outstanding public service, this month.

Michael Dreyer, general manager national digital services and chief technology officer, Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, and Shayne Hunter, formerly deputy director-general, data and digital, Manatū Hauora - Ministry of Health were both awarded the medals on Public Service Day, November 7 2022.

Public service commissioner, Peter Hughes, said the medal winners demonstrated the spirit of service in action.

“This year we recognised people who were vital to the Covid-19 response. People who protected the border and people who worked tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of communities was at the forefront of the response. People who saved lives."

The citation for Dreyer said his leadership and commitment to wellbeing is the embodiment of the spirit of service.

"During the response to Covid-19, his leadership enabled critical health and disability services to continue," it says.

"(Dreyer) led the development of the new digital systems that allowed New Zealand to respond effectively to the pandemic."

Colleagues say the impact that Dreyer has had on the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders cannot be overstated.

"He never loses sight of his people and is highly invested in their wellbeing, constantly stepping up in moments of need."

The citation for Hunter describes him as an empowering leader who has made a positive difference in health technology.

"With experience across the Public Service, he has become a trusted ally for many. During the response to Covid-19 he was instrumental across many critical areas including initial efforts to secure medical supplies through to digital solutions including the Covid Tracer App, the National Contact Tracing Solution, Border Management and Workforce testing registers, patient management and immunisation," it says.

"Throughout times of immense pressure, he navigated challenges with a clear vision and focus on strong collaboration. Shayne has been a brave catalyst for change and his spirit of service is evident to all those who work alongside him."

Picture: L to R - Michael Dreyer and Shayne Hunter

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