25 May 2025
Reflections from the PSNZ Child & Youth Clinical Networks Hui
Our recent national hui with the PSNZ New Zealand Child & Youth Clinical Networks wasn’t just a great day, it was a powerful reminder of why clinical networks matter now more than ever.
In a health system that can feel fragmented and under strain, clinical networks are steadily holding the line. They foster collaboration, improve access, and create space where evidence, equity, and relationships can thrive.
A day grounded in reality — and full of hope
The hui brought together Clinical Network Chairs, Co-Chairs, Project Coordinators, the PSNZ team, and key partners from Starship Hospital, the NZ Child & Youth Epidemiology Service, and KidsHealth. It was a truly national gathering, ensuring that the voices of systems, data, and whānau were all at the table.
The kōrero was honest and future-focused, rich with practical insights, big-picture thinking, and a strong sense of shared purpose.
More than good vibes — it’s good science
A recent systematic review published in BMC Health Services Research backs up what many of us know intuitively: clinical networks work.
What’s the research saying?
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Networks that invest in relationships, communication, and clinician-led governance improve quality of care and patient outcomes.
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Success is underpinned by strong leadership, credible expertise, resourcing, and culturally safe, collaborative care.
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Networks reduce fragmentation, enable evidence-based practice, and drive change across systems and professions.
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They are most effective when inclusive, trusted, and grounded in shared values.
In short:
Networks work best when people are empowered — structurally and relationally.
What this looks like in Aotearoa
At PSNZ, we’re committed to building clinical networks that are:
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Advocating for equity and child-centred care throughout the motu
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Supported by Health New Zealand to deliver nationally aligned, whānau-centred programmes
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Sharing knowledge through KidsHealth and other collaborative national projects
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Elevating Māori leadership, lived experience, and cultural safety
Looking ahead
To everyone who contributed — in person or in spirit — thank you. Your insight, creativity, and unwavering commitment to tamariki make these networks not just functional, but transformative.
Let’s keep building a health system that listens, learns, and leads — together.