The Global Sepsis Alliance warmly congratulates Sepsis Trust NZ on a significant milestone in their national advocacy efforts. On December 4, Ally Hossain, the Trust CEO and GSA Board Member, and co-founder Paul Huggan, met with Hon. Simeon Brown, New Zealand’s Minister of Health, to discuss the urgent need for strengthened action on sepsis across Aotearoa New Zealand.
This high-level meeting marks an important step in ensuring that sepsis—one of the world’s most pressing but still under-recognised health challenges—receives the coordinated national attention it requires. During the discussion, Sepsis Trust NZ presented three key priorities, each closely aligned with global best practice and the World Health Organization’s call for all UN Member States to establish a National Action Plan for sepsis by 2030.
First, the Trust urged the Minister to consider the development and implementation of a National Sepsis Action Plan, a crucial framework that would bring together prevention, early recognition, timely treatment, data collection, and long-term support for survivors. Such a plan would signal a major step forward in aligning New Zealand with global standards and ensuring consistent, equitable care across the country.
Second, they emphasised the importance of providing Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora with the resources needed to fully roll out the new hospital sepsis package developed by the Health Quality & Safety Commission | Te Tāhū Hauora. This package offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen clinical pathways, improve early diagnosis, and reduce preventable deaths—but its success hinges on robust national support and adequate implementation capacity.
Finally, the Trust highlighted the need for strengthened backing for its own work, particularly as it expands support for sepsis survivors and families and continues to raise public awareness. Survivor engagement, community education, and public-facing campaigns are essential components of a comprehensive national response.
Sepsis Trust NZ expressed deep appreciation for Minister Brown’s openness, the time he dedicated to the conversation, and his thoughtful questions. The Trust now awaits the outcome of his upcoming discussions with Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and looks forward to further developments.
The Global Sepsis Alliance commends Sepsis Trust NZ for its leadership and persistence, and stands firmly behind their efforts to ensure that every person in Aotearoa New Zealand has access to timely, life-saving sepsis care and support.
