Community Health Centre launched at CNSST Lantern Festival

New Community Health Centre supports integrated care for Auckland’s ethnic migrant communities.

Comprehensive Care and the CNSST Foundation co-designed the annual Lantern Festival Celebration and Community Health Day, an intergenerational gathering that brought health and culture together.

The Community Health Centre marks the first step, with partners progressing plans toward a fully established general practice (GP).

What the launch means for the community

Community Health Centre development reflects a shared focus on practical support that improves health outcomes and strengthens community wellbeing.

Comprehensive Care’s clinical team supported the day with Community Health stations offering service promotion, navigation, and referral pathways, connecting people to the right support, sooner.

CNSST Foundation and Comprehensive Care have partnered to develop integrated health services for Auckland’s ethnic migrant communities, reflecting a shared commitment to equitable, culturally safe care.

Partnering for measurable impact

Speakers reinforced a simple standard: every service should deliver measurable health outcomes and clear community benefit.

Dr Jacqueline Schmidt-Busby, Chief Executive Officer of Comprehensive Care, said the launch reflects a long-term commitment to community-led solutions:

“Community Health is about making it easier for people to access support where they already are, and making sure every step we take leads to better health outcomes for the community.”

Dr Schmidt-Busby also acknowledged the ethical value of shared learning with for example, social service-focussed community organisations:

“[Health related] knowledge does not belong to one organisation. Sharing it, building it together, and putting it into practice is how we strengthen health and wellbeing for everyone in community.”

Strengthening Asian health services

A dedicated focus on Asian health formed part of the day’s commitment to equitable, culturally safe care.

Dr Derek Chang, head of Asian Health Services at Comprehensive Care, acknowledged the diversity within Asian communities and the importance of meeting people where they are.

“Asian communities are not one group. Needs differ by language, culture, migration journey, and lived experience. Holistic approach is key,” Dr Chang said. “Care has to be culturally safe, practical, and built on trust, so whānau feel seen, supported, and confident to access help early.”

Chang said Community Health creates opportunities to strengthen pathways and increase access through clear information, community connection, and partnership.

“When health information is understandable and services are easier to reach, people are more likely to act early, stay connected to care, and support one another,” he said.

Looking ahead

Development will continue over the coming months as collaborating partners align services to community needs and strengthen coordinated, culturally safe support.

Comprehensive Care will continue to support practices and community partners to strengthen equitable health and wellbeing across our region.

To learn more about our Asian Health Services, click here.