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Bringing food ladders and immunotherapy to the Bay of Plenty
The PSNZ Education Fund supports paediatric professionals to advance care, build networks, and improve equitable outcomes for tamariki and their whānau.
Moira Yates, a nurse specialising in allergy care at Bay of Plenty, used her grant to attend the 2024 SIG Allergy Conference in Ōtautahi Christchurch. The event offered a chance to listen, share ideas, and spark meaningful change—especially during the afternoon allergy nurse breakout session.
One key takeaway was the safe and effective use of food ladders for IgE-mediated allergies—something not yet adopted in our region. It’s a practical, evidence-based approach that could make a real difference for the whānau we serve. – Moira Yates
Moira returned inspired, immediately sharing these insights with her paediatric team. They’re now collaborating to implement:
- The milk and egg ladder to reduce waiting times for allergy challenges
- Updated nurse competencies to reflect emerging best practice
- Early planning to introduce peanut immunotherapy at Bay of Plenty, informed by insights from Starship’s lead immunologist
Moira is also developing whānau-friendly educational materials to support the food ladder approach and ensure families feel confident and informed. Her work is a great example of how frontline professionals can lead system change through collaboration, innovation, and care that’s grounded in equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.