Medical Officer – Older Persons Mental Health Service

Burwood Hospital | Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora
Christchurch, New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

Join a compassionate and experienced team dedicated to the mental health and well-being of older adults.

About the Role

We are seeking a Medical Officer 1 FTE fixed term until 22/01/26 (part time FTE would be considered with the run description narrowed accordingly) to join our Older Persons Mental Health (OPMH) Service at Burwood Hospital. This is a rewarding opportunity to provide medical oversight to older adults experiencing complex psychiatric and cognitive disorders.

As a key member of the multidisciplinary team, you will work closely with psychiatrists, nurses, and allied health professionals to provide medical care and day to day medical management for patients across both OPMH inpatient wards. You will be supported directly by a Geriatrician with input from the OPMH SMO.

There is no afterhours work associated with this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Work in conjunction with the ward House Officer (HO).
• Provide clinical duties including review of medications, maintaining an accurate medication chart and collaborating with other clinicians in the team.
• Identify patients who require review and discuss medical progress with supervising Geriatrician and OPMH SMO.
• Provide the patient and/or family with relevant medical information.
• Participate in the Memory Assessment outpatient clinic if required.
• Be involved in teaching students.
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to ensure holistic, patient-centred care.
• Liaise with General Practitioners, community agencies, and whānau to support continuity of care.

About You
We are looking for a dedicated clinician with:

• A medical degree and eligibility for registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).
• Experience in older persons health with an interest in older persons’ mental health.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A commitment to bicultural practice and understanding of the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• A passion for delivering high-quality, person-centred care.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by Thursday 8th May. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Natalie Gaunt at amy.walker@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz