The appointment of Chai Chuah as the first National Director to the new National Health Board, within the Ministry of Health, has been welcomed by the New Zealand Medical Association.

Mr Chuah, who has been the interim National Director since last October, is well recognised and respected within the health sector, says NZMA Chair Dr Peter Foley.

"Having served as the Chief Executive of the Hutt Valley District Health Board since 2002, Mr Chuah has considerable experience in the health sector and will now be able to take up this important and challenging role."

"The NZMA strongly supports the goals of the NHB which seeks to reduce duplication of our health services and ensure greater consistency in the performance of all District Health Boards."

Dr Foley said the NZMA looked forward to working closely with Mr Chuah and the NHB to ensure it delivers optimal health services to all New Zealanders.