A proposal by the Hawke's Bay District Health Board, to change the way primary health care is delivered, is receiving a mixed response.
The region has three PHOs (primary health organisations) and a discussion document suggests merging them into one, or creating a new primary care division within the health board instead.
The DHB says three PHOs have been beneficial, but more integration is needed between primary and secondary care.
Opinions on the two options are divided.
People in Wairoa fear doing away with the PHO there will mean of loss of some health services.
A Trust that services the health needs of Pacific Islanders in the region says current funding is inadequate and one PHO may worsen its situation.
But the board of Tu Meke PHO has voted unanimously for a single PHO run by a community trust.
Another PHO, which covers Napier, Hastings and Central Hawke's Bay, also favours one PHO.
