The 2019 Health and Independence report presents the latest data on measures of health, including life expectancy, causes of health loss, and determinants of health. It complements the Ministry’s Annual Report, which includes detailed information about the strategic direction of the health and disability system and measures of the health and disability system’s performance and impact.
This report covers the period up to the end of 2019, so it does not include COVID-19 information. The impacts of COVID-19 on the health and disability system, and people’s health and wellbeing, will be canvassed in future years’ reports.
The 2019 report is divided into four sections.
Starting point – This section presents a snapshot of New Zealand’s population, which is diverse, ageing and growing. We must meet the health and disability needs of all New Zealanders.
Population health measures – We measure the health of our population in various ways to identify health issues affecting New Zealanders, and to highlight inequity in health outcomes for certain groups.
Causes of health loss – This section highlights how key non-communicable diseases contribute to our health loss. It also outlines the impact of three communicable diseases: measles, meningococcal disease, and rheumatic fever.
Determinants of health and wellbeing – This section highlights the factors that can support or be barriers to good health and broader wellbeing.