Mr Fleming said DHB management had been characterised as "obstructive and purely reactive" and unable to work constructively with clinical leaders — both of which he denied. "I agree with Mr Powell that we cannot afford to have a divisive culture at the DHB; and it offends me that a clinical leader would use the platform of his departure to perpetuate such a message." Service managers shared the concerns of specialists but were powerless because of "the obstructive stifling leadership culture above them," Dr Powell said. Mr Fleming told staff that he believed the DHB had showed a real openness to discussions with staff as it consulted on the new Dunedin hospital and the implementation of its community health strategy. Dr Powell said he "absolutely" stood by his previous comments.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 12, 2019 15:22 UTC