9. MARTIN GALLAGHER (Labour—Hamilton West) Link to this
to the Minister for ACC
Has she received any reports on the effectiveness of ACC’s falls-prevention programmes for older people involving tai chi?
Hon RUTH DYSON (Minister for ACC) Link to this
Yes, I have seen an evaluation of the tai chi programmes offered by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). The evaluation was done by the Auckland University of Technology and shows significant improvements in the strength and balance of participants. An evaluation of Christchurch classes shows a 63 percent reduction in falls, with 97 percent of participants having improved confidence as a result of the reduced fear of falling.
Charles ChauvelHas she received any other reports concerning proposals that would jeopardise successful injury prevention programmes?
Yes, I have. I have seen reports proposing that the ACC scheme be replaced with a competitive market-based scheme. It is well accepted among injury prevention experts that successful injury prevention depends on collaboration and coordination. National’s proposal to privatise the scheme would do exactly the opposite, and undo the successes this Government has achieved.