Data and digital health DDG Shayne Hunter resigns

NEWS - eHealthNews.nz editor Rebecca McBeth 

Shayne Hunter is stepping down from his role as deputy director-general data and digital at the Ministry of Health.

Hunter was appointed in January 2019, when the role was created in a Ministry restructure as part of the new data and digital directorate.

Director general of health, Ashley Bloomfield, says Hunter has provided outstanding leadership for data and digital work across the health system during his time in the role.

“He has been instrumental in raising and developing the health and disability sector’s data and digital strategy and capability,” says Bloomfield.

“Hunter is respected in the Ministry and across the sector for his knowledge, and his inclusive and outcome focused approach. His influence has been significant and leaves the system better placed for its journey ahead.”

Bloomfield says Hunter built an excellent team that has delivered a huge amount during his time at the Ministry.

“This is evident in many ways including the enormous progress we were able to make in a relatively short time, often under enormous pressure, in our response to the Covid-19 pandemic,” he says.

The digital tools the Ministry was able to create and operationalise include the; COVID Tracer app, My Vaccine Pass, My COVID Record, the COVID-19 Health Hub, Bluetooth contact tracing, and “many other significant digital instruments which enabled us to respond quickly in a rapidly evolving environment”, says Bloomfield.

HiNZ board chair Karen Blake says Hunter will be a huge loss to the digital health community.

“He has led the sector through one of the most difficult times and been absolutely fundamental to the Covid response. His leadership and vision has literally saved lives by ensuring people have access to technology and to their own information,” she says.

“Hunter has also been an incredible supporter of HiNZ. He really understands the value of having a community and the impact of networking and our organisation in supporting and connecting people in the digital health space.”

Picture: Shayne Hunter, deputy director-general data and digital


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