This is an HTML version of an attachment to the Official Information request 'Gifts to medical staff from pharmaceutical companies'.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
20th May 2021 
 
N Vaughan 
Private/Individual 
Email: [FYI request #15152 email] 
 
Dear Mr Vaughan 
 
Official Information Act Request for – Gifts to medical staff from Pharmaceutical Companies 
 
I write in response to your Official Information Act request received by us 13th April 2021, you 
requested the following information: 
 
1.  Do you keep a central gift register, which records details about what gifts medical staff receive, 
who they are from, and the gift's value? If not, why not?   
2.  How  many  staff  in  your  DHB  have  accepted  gifts  (of  any  form)  from  pharmaceutical 
companies? Information from the past 2-year period is preferred, including what these gifts 
were, and their monetary value.  

3.  Is  there  any  policy  in  place  that  prevents  medical  staff  from  accepting  some  gifts  from 
pharmaceutical companies? If so, please send a copy of this policy.  
In relation to disclosure of these gifts (from pharmaceutical companies): 

4.  When must medical staff disclose these gifts to the hospital or DHB? If there is a related policy, 
please send a copy.  
5.  Are medical staff required to disclose these gifts to their patients? If there is a related policy, 
please send a copy.  
 
Counties Manukau Health Response: 
For context Counties Manukau Health (CM Health) employs over 8,500 staff and provides health and 
support services to people living in the Counties Manukau region (approx. 601,490 people). We see over 
118,000  people  in  our  Emergency  Department  each  year,  and  over  2,000  visitors  come  through 
Middlemore Hospital daily. 
 
Our services are delivered via hospital, outpatient, ambulatory and community-based models of care. 
We provide regional and supra-regional specialist services i.e. for orthopaedics, plastics, burns and spinal 
services.  There are also several specialist services provided including tertiary surgical services, medical 
services, mental health and addiction services. 
 
1.  Do you keep a central gift register, which records details about what gifts medical staff receive, 
who they are from, and the gift's value? If not, why not?   
CM Health does not centrally capture information on gifts given, each service is responsible for 
maintaining  their  own  gift  register.  As  per  the  CM  Health  conflict  of  Interest  Policy,  “any 
Hospitality  that  is  offered  or  accepted  that  has  a  value  over  $100  must  be  recorded  in  the 
CMDHB Gifts Register for the relevant service”.  
Counties Manukau Health 
 
 
Private Bag 93311, Otahuhu, Auckland  
T: 09 276 0000 | cmdhb.org.nz 
 
 
 

2.  How  many  staff  in  your  DHB  have  accepted  gifts  (of  any  form)  from  pharmaceutical 
companies? Information from the past 2-year period is preferred, including what these gifts 
were, and their monetary value.  
Table 1 below reflects the 2019 and 2020 entries of gifts/hospitality on the gifts register from 
Pharmaceutical companies. 
 
Description of gift, hospitality or Benefit 
 Approximate Value  
Return flights to Wellington and 1 night’s 
accommodation, Stroke Nurse Specialist Symposium 
$737.00 
2019 
Meals, Venue, Parking – Heart Rhythm annual event 
$768.00 
attendance 
Accommodation & food & transport - NZ Respiratory 
$1,000.00 
Workshop - July 2019 
American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Conference in 
$15,000.00 
Atlanta Georgia, USA - Nov 2019 
One Day conference at Wellington Oct 2019 
$300.00 
Heart Rhythm Meeting  
$384.00 
Return Economy flights to attend IBD Master class 2019 
as an invited speaker. One night stay in Sofitel Melbourne 
Value Unknown 
on Collins. 
IMID Conference Registration Speaker Honorarium Spa 
$1,150.00 
GP Seminar – July 2019 
CSSANZ Colorectal Journal Club sponsorship and dinner 
Value Unknown 
meeting up to 4 x per year (for 5 staff). 
Table 1: Data Sourced Finance Team  
 

3.  Is  there  any  policy  in  place  that  prevents  medical  staff  from  accepting  some  gifts  from 
pharmaceutical companies? If so, please send a copy of this policy.  
In relation to disclosure of these gifts (from pharmaceutical companies): 

4.  When must medical staff disclose these gifts to the hospital or DHB? If there is a related policy, 
please send a copy.  
In response to questions three and four, as per the CM Health Conflict of Interest Policy, “any 
Hospitality that is offered or accepted that has a value of over $100 must be recorded in the 
CMDHB Gifts Register for the relevant service”.  
 
CM Health, has a Donations, Gifts and Sponsorship policy  that  provides detailed guidance to 
staff on the appropriateness of specific interactions with third parties. The policy defines the 
DHB’s requirements when considering approving (or declining) offers of sponsorship, donations, 
gifts and corporate hospitality from external parties. The DHBs Conflict of Interest policy also 
provides guidance in this regard. 
 

5.  Are medical staff required to disclose these gifts to their patients? If there is a related policy, 
please send a copy.  
Medical  staff  are  not  required  to  disclose  gifts  received  from  Pharmaceutical  companies  to 
patients.  
 
I trust this information answers your request. You are entitled to seek a review of the response by the 
Ombudsman  under  section  28(3)  of the  Official  Information  Act.    Information about  how  to make  a 
complaint is available at www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or Freephone 0800 802 602. 
 


Please note that this response or an edited version of this may be published on the Counties Manukau 
Health website. If you consider there are good reasons why this response should not be made publicly 
available, we will be happy to consider this. 
Yours sincerely 
Fepulea’i Margie Apa 
Chief Executive Officer 
Counties Manukau Health
 
Appendix 1 - Conflict of Interest Policy
Appendix 2 - Donations, Gifts & Sponsorship Policy

Appendix 1
Page 1 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Policy:  Conflict of Interest
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance on the identification, disclosure and 
management of conflicts of interest within CMDHB. A secondary purpose of this policy is 
to protect the integrity of the DHB and its employees by helping to ensure that employees 
perform their duties in a fair and unbiased manner and that decisions are made 
unaffected by private interests or personal gain.
Scope
This policy is applicable to all CMDHB employees, (full-time, part-time and casual 
(temporary) including contractors, visiting health professionals and students working in 
any CMDHB facility.
The activities covered by this policy include commercial transactions and recruitment of 
employees as well as clinical research and related activities such as funding and research 
grants.
Policy Statements
Where an employee has an interest (or potential interest) in a transaction - financial, 
professional or personal - which may potentially conflict with their obligations to the DHB, 
VAUGHAN
they must immediately declare that interest to the appropriate Manager or Clinical Head.
Where an interest, including an actual or potential conflict of interest, is identified the 
relevant employee’s Manager/Clinical Head must:
 decide whether any change to the employee’s activities is required to mitigate
any conflict; and
 determine what other steps are necessary to appropriately deal with the interest.
Such decisions will be made in conjunction with the appropriate General Manager and 
Legal Adviser where appropriate. 
Where an employee has a conflict of interest and has knowingly withheld this 
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information, and/or acted to their own advantage, the employee may be subject to 
disciplinary action including dismissal.
The meaning of “conflict of interest”
A conflict of interest exists when it is likely that an employee could be influenced or could 
be perceived to be influenced by a personal or private interest in any transaction whilst 
carrying out their responsibilities for the DHB.
Transaction means:
(a) the exercise or performance of a function, duty, or power of the DHB; or
(b) an arrangement, agreement, or contract to which the DHB is a party; or
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 2 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
(c) a proposal that the DHB enter into an arrangement, agreement, or
contract; or
(d) the development of a strategy or policy that will guide  future decision
making on service provision, purchasing, contracting or staff employment.
The functions the relevant individual performs, and delegated authorities that employee 
holds at the DHB, will need to be considered to determine how a conflict of interest may 
arise. 
A personal or private interest is an interest that can bring benefit or disadvantage to an 
employee as an individual, or to others whom the employee may wish to benefit or 
disadvantage.  
An Interest in a Transaction that can lead to a conflict of interest may exist where an 
employee:
 will derive financial, professional or personal benefit from the transaction
 has financial interest in another party to a transaction
 is a director, officer or trustee of another party to the transaction, or is a person
who will or may derive a material financial benefit from the transaction
 is a shareholder of another party to the transaction
 has an interest in another party tendering for work which the DHB is contesting
 is the parent, child, spouse, sibling, partner or close friend of another party to the
VAUGHAN
transaction, or a person who will or may derive a financial benefit from the
transaction.
Identifying a conflict of interest
Whether an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists must be actively 
considered by:
a) all employees on an on-going basis, and
b) employees with decision making responsibilities whenever business or human
resources decisions are made.
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Although not all staff are responsible for making business decisions or managing other 
staff, they may have an ability to indirectly influence decisions that are made or may 
make other types of decisions which could be affected by a conflict of interest.  
It can often be difficult to determine whether an actual or perceived conflict of interest 
exists. 
If an employee answers yes to any of the following questions it indicates that conflict of 
interest may exist and further advice should be sought.
 Would a fair and reasonable person perceive that I was influenced by personal
interest in performing my public duty?
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 3 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
 Do I, a relative, friend or associate stand to gain/lose financially from the DHB’s
decision or action on this matter?
 Do I, a relative, friend or associate stand to gain/lose in any way from the DHB’s
decision/action?
 Am I in a position to influence decision making about a matter related to a
potential personal or professional interest?
 Have I made any promises or commitments in relation to this matter?
 Have I received a benefit or hospitality from someone who stands to lose or gain
from the DHB’s decision/action?
 Am I a member of an association, club or professional organisation, or do I have
particular ties or affiliations with organisations or individuals, who stand to lose or
gain from the DHB’s consideration of the matter?
 Could there be benefits for me in the future that could cast doubt on my
objectivity?
 Might I be perceived as favouring a particular person or firm because of a
personal friendship or long-standing association?
 Am I in a position to influence development of a particular strategy or policy that
will guide future decisions from which I may benefit personally?
 Do I need to seek advice or discuss the matter with an objective party?
VAUGHAN
 Am I concerned about my ability to act impartially and in the public interest?
 Do I need to declare the matter to my manager or to the relevant decision making
group?
Answering “No” to any of the following questions should be a signal to an employee to 
disclose their interest:
 If I do participate in assessment or decision-making, would I be happy for my
colleagues and the public to be aware of any association or connection?
 When I am making a presentation or recommendation to the Board or to another
decision making group, are they aware of my interests (including private practice
OIA13042021 
commitments) which might be perceived as influencing the advice I am giving?
Actual, Perceived and Potential Conflicts of Interest
Conflicts of interest can be actual, perceived or potential.
An actual conflict of interest involves a direct conflict between an employee’s 
current duties and responsibilities and existing private interests.
perceived or apparent conflict of interest can exist where it could be perceived, 
or appears, that an employee’s private interests could improperly influence the 
performance of their duties, whether or not this is the case.
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 4 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
potential conflict of interest arises where an employee has private interests 
that could conflict with other official duties in the future.
For advice, please contact the head of the decision making group to which you belong or 
your relevant manager or Clinical Head.
Competing Interests or Conflict of Duties
Conflicts of interest can also arise where an individual has official roles in more than one 
public organisation.  In these situations, it may be difficult for a public official to keep the 
roles separate and this can lead to poor performance of one of the roles, at least, and 
unlawful or improper decision making at worst, or improper use of information to give 
advantage to the second organisation etc.  These types of conflict are not always 
recognised because no private interest is involved or apparent.  These situations are 
usually described as one of competing interests or a conflict of duty, and are best 
managed on the same basis as conflict of interest.
Employment of or promotion of relatives
There are situations under Section 32 (exception in Relation to Family Status) of the 
Human Rights Act 1993 which allow an employer to impose restrictions on the 
employment of any people who are married to, or living in a relationship in the nature of 
marriage with, or who are related to other employees.
VAUGHAN
Managers recruiting staff must ascertain whether the appointment of a person may 
create an actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest.  Employees should inform 
their manager in the event that, subsequent to commencing employment, they enter into 
a relationship that causes an actual or potential conflict of interest or a perception 
thereof.
Managers should refer to the Recruitment Policy for further information.
OIA13042021 
Dealing with Conflicts of Interest
Disclosure of Conflict of Interest
After determining that a conflict of interest may exist in a particular situation, the 
individual employee must disclose any actual or potential interest they have (whether 
pecuniary or non-pecuniary).
The employee should disclose to their manager, or Clinical Head, and any relevant 
decision making group, or the responsible decision making person, his or her conflict of 
interest at the first available opportunity, for a decision as to what action should be taken 
to avoid or deal with the conflict.  Disclosures are to be treated as confidential if 
appropriate. The employee must disclose not just the existence of a conflict or potential 
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 5 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
conflict, but sufficient details about the nature of the situation to allow appropriate 
decisions to be made about management of the conflict.
Documentation of Conflict of Interest
The existence of a conflict of interest by a member of staff must be documented in an 
Interests Register. This documentation should note:
 the name of the employee
 the nature of their interest in the transaction, and
 what role they had in the transaction e.g. no role, only involved in the
discussion but not the decision, full involvement.
In circumstances where issues have been discussed and it has been decided that there is 
no conflict of interest then there is no need to declare this, unless this is the expressed 
wish of the employee involved.
It is best practice for the DHB to acknowledge that interests have been declared and 
recorded appropriately.
Interests and Gift Registers
Interest Registers will be maintained to record all interests (actual or potential).  The 
required template for Interest Registers is attached at Appendix 3.  The required template 
VAUGHAN
for Gift Registers is attached at Appendix 4.  Registers are to incorporate as a minimum 
the following information:
 name of the person declaring the interest
 name of the person the interest was declared to
 date of declaration
 organisation or individual involved
 brief description of matter
 action taken/comments.
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For Executive Leadership Team members the Interests and Gifts Register will be held by 
the Director of Strategic Development.   For all other service areas, the relevant General 
Manager (or equivalent e.g. CMO, DON, DAH) will maintain an Interest and Gifts register 
for their service.  Each General Manager is responsible for ensuring that:
 any staff within their area of responsibility who are required to complete an
interests/gifts declaration do so.
 a copy of each completed form is maintained in a central folder.
 any interests that are declared are recorded, along with a description of what will
be done to manage the interest (for example, arranging another staff member to
take over responsibilities relevant to the interest, ensuring the staff member is
not part of specific procurement processes)
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Conflict of Interest Policy
 a register is maintained of all gifts that are declared.
 advice is sought from the Legal Adviser and/or HR department as required in
relation to specific issues that may arise in relation to conflicts.
 the above registers and documentation are available for inspection by internal
audit, legal services etc as required.
Interest and Gift Declarations
The following staff will be required to complete an annual Declaration of Interests, Gifts 
and Hospitality Form as attached at Appendix 2, or confirm in writing to their manager or 
Clinical Head that they have no interests, gifts or hospitality to declare:
 Executive Leadership Team members
 General Managers
 Service Managers
 Programme Mangers
 Clinical Directors
 Clinical Nurse Directors
 Any employees or contractors involved in the purchase of major goods or services
or in a position to influence significant purchasing decisions.
VAUGHAN
In situations where an interest or potential conflict is identified in relation to an employee 
not listed above, it is expected that a Declaration of Interest, Gifts and Hospitality form 
will be provided to the individual for completion and that this will be included in the 
Conflicts and/or Gifts register along with other required documentation about the nature 
and extent of the interest and actions taken.
Assessing the seriousness of a conflict of interest
Assessing the seriousness of a conflict of interest is important for a number of reasons. It 
OIA13042021 
may be necessary for determining whether an interest exists (e.g. an interest may be so 
remote or insignificant that it could not reasonably be regarded as influencing the 
employee).  The seriousness of the conflict can also be important in determining the 
appropriate manner in which to manage the interest (for example, whether the 
employees should be excluded from activities relating to the subject of the conflict or 
potential conflict. 
The Office of the Auditor General has identified the following factors that should be 
weighed when assessing the seriousness of the conflict:
 The type or size of the employee’s other interest
 The nature or significance of the particular decision or activity being carried out
by the DHB
Document ID:
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CMH Revision No:
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Conflict of Interest Policy
 The extent to which the employee’s other interest could specifically affect, or be
affected by, the DHB decision or activity
 The nature or extent of the employee’s current or intended involvement in the
DHB’s decision or activity.
Seriousness is a question of degree. It involves a spectrum of directness and significance. 
“Directness” is how closely the two interests concern each other, and “significance” is the 
magnitude of the potential effect of one interest on the other.
Options for Dealing with a Conflict of Interest
Generally, if a pecuniary interest is disclosed, the individual with the interest must not be 
involved in consideration or discussion of the matter in which he or she has the interest 
and must not vote on any question relating to the matter. 
In rare situations this may not be possible or desirable.  For example, if a conflict of 
interest is identified at or near the conclusion of a process.  Appointing an independent 
person to be involved in decision-making would minimize the actual or perceived 
influence or involvement of the person with the actual or reasonably perceived conflict.  
Another example is an employee with an interest may also have particular and unique 
expertise in the matter under discussion.  If that expertise is not readily available from 
another source it may be to the DHB’s benefit to allow the employee to contribute their 
expertise despite their interest in the matter.  Such situations should be handled with 
caution.  There should be documentation of the reasons for allowing the employee’s 
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participation and the steps taken to ensure the decision on the matter is unbiased.
However, a broader range of options exists for dealing with conflicts of interest that do 
not have a pecuniary component.  Choosing the right option to deal with the situation will 
depend on the circumstances and an objective assessment of it.  Options can include:
 take no action because the conflict is assessed as being minor in nature or is
eliminated by disclosure or effective supervision
 allow limited involvement (e.g. participate in discussion, but not in decision
making)
 prohibit any involvement
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 request the individual concerned relinquish or divest the personal interest which
creates the conflict
 appoint an independent person to manage the process to provide assurances of
fairness and equity in the matter.
Appeals Process
If an employee and their manager/Clinical Head disagree with respect to any Conflict of 
Interest issue, an appeal may be made for a review to the General Manager Human 
Resources, or the Chief Medical Officer Hospital Services, or through other options 
available to the employee.
Gifts and Hospitality
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 8 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Accepting gifts, hospitality or other benefits (such as sponsorship) can in some 
circumstances cast doubt on the integrity and impartiality of CMDHB and the decisions 
that the Board makes. Employees must ensure that they comply with the CMDHB 
Donations, Gifts and Sponsorship” Policy and that appropriate disclosures are made 
about any hospitality that is offered or received.   All offers of hospitality must be 
discussed with the relevant manager or Clinical Head to determine whether acceptance is 
appropriate.  Any hospitality that is offered or accepted that has a value of over $100 
must be recorded in the CMDHB Gifts Register for the relevant service. The required Gift 
Register Template is attached at Appendix 4. 
Employees should be particularly aware that acceptance of any gifts or hospitality during, 
or in close proximity to, any procurement or tendering process could undermine the 
probity requirements in relation to purchasing transactions, particularly if the provider of 
the gift or hospitality has any relationship, or potential relationship with a supplier of 
goods or services to the DHB. 
Employees should be aware that these requirements apply to any gifts or hospitality 
offered or received where they may relate to DHB business, even if offered to an 
individual in a capacity other than his/her capacity as an employee of the DHB.
VAUGHAN
OIA13042021 
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
If you are not reading this document directly from the Document Directory this may not be the most current version.

Page 9 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Definitions
Term/Abbreviation
Description
Conflict of interest
In the context of the public sector there is a conflict of interest 
where:
A member’s or official’s duties or responsibilities to a public entity 
could be affected by some other interest or duty that the member or 
official may have”.
Relationship
A personal level of connection, association, interaction or 
interdependence with any other person who may or may not be a 
life partner, intimate other, blood relative or member of the same 
household
Relative
For the purposes of this policy, a relative means any other person 
who:
a) is related by blood, marriage (whether legal or de facto),
affinity, or adoption; or
b) is wholly or mainly dependent upon the employee; or
c) is a member of the employee’s household.
s.2(1)(c) Human Rights Act 1993
Associated Documents
VAUGHAN
Other documents relevant to this policy are listed below:
NZ Legislation
Crown  Entities Act 2004
NZ Public Health and Disability Act 2000
NZ Standards
None
CMDHB Policies / Procedures Code of Conduct
Delegated Authority
Additional / secondary Employment
Discipline and Dismissal
Donations, Gifts and Sponsorship
Conflicts of Interest, Gifts and Hospitality – Board 
Members
OIA13042021 
Workplace Relationship Policy 
Other related documents
“Good Practice Guide:  Managing conflicts of interest: 
Guidance for public entities”  Office of the Controller and 
Auditor-General (2007)
“Good Practice Guide:  Procurement guidance for public  
entities”  Office of the Controller and Auditor-General 
(2008)
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 10 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Appendix 1:  Conflict of Interest Examples and Recommended Actions
Listed below, under various classifications, are situations where conflicts of interest may 
potentially occur and a recommended action to avoid or deal with the conflict.
Gifts/benefits or hospitality from Suppliers
Situation
Recommended Action
Accepting gifts or benefits from suppliers, or 
Refer to your policy on gifts and gratuities. Best 
other individuals, involved in the provision of 
practice is to accept the gift on behalf of the 
goods and/or services could present a conflict 
unit for which you work. If the gift is expressly 
of interest or obligation.  Gifts and benefits can  for you, report that you received the gift to 
take many forms e.g. lucky door prizes, raffles, 
your manager/clinical head to record the 
travel, meals. It also includes opportunities to 
details appropriately.
attend educational conferences or meetings 
Note that there are limits placed on the value 
and attendance at or participation in sports 
of gifts that can be received.
events.
Offers of sponsorship to attend clinical 
(Note: Sponsorship/benefits for the use of a 
conferences should be discussed with the 
particular Unit or Service, rather than for an 
clinician’s Clinical Director before acceptance.  
individual, may be solicited from suppliers with  Offers accepted must be reported to the 
the prior approval of a General Manager or the  clinician’s General Manager.
Chief Executive.  The Executive Director of  the 
VAUGHAN
South Auckland Health Foundation should be 
advised of the intention to approach a 
supplier.)
Purchasing of Goods and Services or Letting of Contracts
Situation
Recommended Action
Selection of Tenders:   Preferring tenderer or 
Where there is a private interest with any 
prospective contractor with whom there is a 
tenderer or contractor , the employee must 
private relationship (family relationship or close  withdraw from the selection or appointment 
OIA13042021 
friendship).
process.
Presentations to the Board or other decision-makers
Situation
Recommended Action
Making a written or oral presentation to the 
At the start of the written or oral presentation 
Board (or to another CMDHB decision making 
the presenter is expected to explicitly declare 
body) about equipment, facilities or services 
their private practice involvement.  The Board 
when the presenter has, or is contemplating, 
or other decision making body then has an 
private sector involvement in a similar service.
opportunity to ask questions about this 
interest.
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 11 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
When arrangements are being made for a staff 
member to make a presentation to the Board, 
the staff member will be reminded of the 
expectation to declare private practice 
commitments.
Recruitment
Situation
Recommended Action
Sitting as a member on selection panels where 
Declare the interest and withdraw from any 
applicants for the position are known to the 
part of the recruitment process is the 
member personally, as family, friend or close 
preferred option; however in some situations 
associate, to an extent that could be considered 
it may be necessary to include the person with 
to be a conflict of interest.
the conflict on the panel (for example in cases 
where they have specific expertise that is 
required). In these cases it may be an option 
to involve an independent person in the 
recruitment process.
Being in a position to influence the selection, or 
Declare the interest.  Other actions as noted 
non-selection, of an applicant for a position 
above.
where the applicant is known personally and 
VAUGHAN
involvement could be perceived to be a conflict 
of interest.
Staff administration
Situation
Recommended Action
Having a close personal and/or family 
All employees are to be treated equally and 
relationship with another employee over whom 
fairly and any relationships that could be 
control is exercised.
perceived to be of possible concern should be 
brought to the attention of the appropriate 
OIA13042021 
See Definitions for definition of ‘relationship’ and  senior employee. If it appears that employees 
‘relative’.
are being given preferential treatment, these 
concerns should be addressed through the 
disciplinary process. 
Improper actions in relation to staff administration
Improper actions in the context of staff management include:
 promoting friends or relatives when other employees are more deserving
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Date First Issued:
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Page 12 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
 Preferentially rostering staff to the advantage of particular individuals due to personal
association with those persons. This can have financial (penalty rates etc) advantage to
the favoured individuals to the disadvantage of other employees.
 Regular allocation of overtime to particular individuals, to the disadvantage of other
persons equally entitled and equally efficient.
 Assessment and/or inappropriate recommendation of particular individuals over others
because of personal associations, for such things as:
o training courses;
o attending conferences;
o job or advancement opportunities.
 Recommending incremental progression, or non-progression, of particular individuals due
to personal interests, or attitudes, that are not aligned to the work situation.
 Giving preference for the taking of leave by individuals to the detriment of others due to
personal association.
 Not applying the same rules equally to all employees because of personal association e.g.
failure to address issues of late attendance, non-performance, etc.
Election to public office
Situation
Recommended Action
Employees may offer themselves for appointment 
Employees should notify the Chief Executive 
or election to any public office, but they should be 
immediately they offer themselves for 
aware that the duties of the office may conflict with  appointment or election to public office (or, 
VAUGHAN
the due and proper discharge of their duties with 
preferably, before they offer themselves).
Counties Manukau DHB.
Client/Patient Relationship and Referrals to Private Practice
Situation
Recommended Action
Providing information or making recommendations  Staff are not to give preferential treatment 
to patient s about service providers where one of 
to personal associates at the expense of 
the service providers is a close friend/relative, etc.
others.
OIA13042021  Clinicians have an ethical duty to provide 
patients with all the information necessary 
for them to make decisions about treatment 
options.  When a patient requests 
information about private sector treatment, 
the clinician should ensure that they make 
known to the patient all the options that 
might reasonably be considered.  Care is 
especially needed if the clinician is a 
potential private provider.  It is advisable to 
recommend that the patient discuss the 
referral with their GP.
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
Legal and Privacy Services
Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 13 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Situation
Recommended Action
If a staff member is found to have received a 
financial return for recommending one 
service provider, or firm, disciplinary action 
taken may include dismissal.
Participation in Political Activities
Situation
Recommended Action
Employees serving in executive positions within any  Employees should advise the Chief 
political party or politically sensitive organisation 
Executive in writing, with a copy to the GM 
are open to allegations of bias in favour of that 
Human Resources, upon being appointed to 
organisation to the detriment of Counties Manukau  executive positions within any political party 
DHB.
or politically sensitive organisation.
Working in Clinical Teams
Situation
Recommended Action
VAUGHAN
Temporary reporting relationships between 
Manager discretion (in consultation with 
relatives/partners
their manager) to implement a different 
reporting line if deemed necessary in the 
particular circumstances.
Agree to and review processes to assess how the 
Discuss with the employees involved about 
professional relationships between family 
how this might best occur.
members/partners are working.
All staff, including Clinicians and Other Health Professionals
Health professionals encounter a variety of circumstances in their day-to-day work which could 
OIA13042021 
give rise to potential conflicts of interest.
Situation
Recommended Action
Establishing a relationship with a pharmaceutical  Declare any potential conflict of interest to 
company or medical equipment supplier where 
the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or 
it could be perceived that preference was given 
authorised delegate[s] e.g. your Manager or 
to that particular company during a procurement  Clinical Head.
/ tendering process.
Accepting travel and accommodation fees to 
Obtain approval from CEO or authorised 
present research findings.
delegate[s] for accepting travel and 
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CMH Revision No:
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 14 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Situation
Recommended Action
accommodation fees and releasing of 
possible confidential information.
Accepting payment of fees and/or honorariums 
for sitting on committees.
If a fee-for-service is received and the 
service is provided during working hours, 
then the income must be declared and 
provided to the organisation.  (Also refer to 
Secondary/Additional Employment Policy)
Participating on professional boards, 
committees, societies, etc. which could 
Obtain approval from CEO or authorised 
constitute a conflict of interest with position held  delegate[s] to participate in external boards 
in the DHB.
etc where there is any or could be a 
perception of a conflict with the duties or 
functions performed in the DHB.
Having directorships and share holdings in 
Declare the interest to the CEO or 
private companies, associations, etc which deal 
authorised delegate[s] who would then 
with the DHB.
decide whether a conflict of interest existed 
and possibly restrict the person’s 
involvement in the DHB’s processes or 
request resignation from external 
Evaluating new products/drugs where decisions 
involvement.
VAUGHAN
may be influenced by personal 
associations/offers of samples or equipment, 
Declare any potential conflict of interest to 
whether to the individual or the organisation.
the CEO or authorised delegate[s].
Evaluating new products/techniques/devices
developed by employees also involved in clinical 
This must be approved by the Clinical Review 
trials of same; or when a company licensed to use  Board and the Research Review Committee, 
an employee’s invention is sponsoring trial to be 
who will decide on how to manage the 
undertaken with the DHB.
conflict and legal responsibilities.
Appointment to a paid position as a medical or 
technical advisor to a supplier (e.g. a 
OIA13042021  The offer of appointment should be 
pharmaceutical company or medical supplies 
discussed by the employee with his or her 
company) is likely to create a conflict of interest.
General Manager or Clinical Director before 
accepting.
Publicly endorsing a product or service and 
including the health professional’s position at the  DHB employees must not allow their names 
DHB, is not to take place unless authorised by the  and positions at the DHB to be used in 
employee’s Manager or Clinical Director.
product or service endorsements in material 
sent by suppliers to potential customers.  
Employees may, subject to the approval of 
their Manager or Clinical Director, agree to 
give advice about the adequacy of the 
product or service to another prospective 
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Approved by:
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Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 15 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Situation
Recommended Action
purchaser e.g. another DHB.
Other Activities that are likely to cause conflicts of interest
Situation
Recommended Action
Having a significant financial interest in an 
Such interests must be disclosed.
organisation that receives funding from the DHB 
or is a supplier to the DHB.
Receiving gifts, loans or other special privileges 
As a general rule such benefits should not 
from an organisation that receives funding from 
be accepted.  The offer of them should be 
the DHB or is a supplier to the DHB.
disclosed.  (See section on Gifts/Benefits or 
Hospitality above for limited exceptions and 
further guidance).
Payment or receipt, by individual employees, of 
Such activities are prohibited.
rebates or bribes or other forms of compensation  (Rebates for the DHB itself may be 
to induce funding or obtain favourable contract 
negotiated in some instances as part of 
terms.
normal contractual arrangements).
VAUGHAN
Use of the DHB’s funds to reimburse employees 
Such activities are prohibited.
or others in ways that would violate CMDHB’s 
policies.
Holding unrecorded cash funds.
This is prohibited.  All funds due to the DHB 
must be paid into a DHB bank account.
Holding outside employment or being a director 
Such activity must be disclosed to Counties 
of another healthcare provider.
Manukau DHB.  Refer also to the Additional 
Employment Policy.
OIA13042021 
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Page 16 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Appendix 2- Declaration of Interests Form
Declaration of Interests, Gifts and Hospitality
This form must be completed by all DHB staff who:
o
are involved, or may be involved, in the purchase of any goods and/or services or who are in a position to make or
influence a significant purchasing decision.

o
are required to complete the declaration in accordance with the CMDHB Conflict of Interest Policy
who have, or may have, an interest or conflict relevant to DHB activities
PART A:
DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Please declare any interest you may have which may cause, or may be perceived as causing, a conflict with your duties and 
responsibilities as a CMDHB employee. This includes financial interests you may have in other agencies that the DHB does 
or may contract with or has relationships with; secondary employment with such other organisations; private clinical practice
commitments you may have; and close family relationships with other individuals who may be in any of the above categories 
(e.g. parent, partner). Please ensure that you provide full details of the nature of the interest you are declaring. If you have 
no interest to declare please write “NIL”. 
DESCRIPTION OF INTEREST
PART B:
DECLARATION OF GIFTS, GRATUITIES, HOSPITALITY AND SPONSORSHIP
Please include below details of any offers, gifts, gratuities, hospitality and/or “sponsorship” with value greater than $100 that 
VAUGHAN
have been offered and/or received during the past 12 months from any company or organisation that CMDHB does or may 
contract with for the provision of goods or services. 
COMPANY OR 
DESCRIPTION OF OFFER
ACCEPTED/DECLINED
OGRANISATION
PART C:
OIA13042021 
I confirm that at the date of signing, the above is true and complete.
I agree that I will declare any interests, conflict, offers, gifts, gratuities, hospitality, sponsorship and/or interest on an ongoing 
basis throughout the year in accordance with the CMDHB “Conflict of Interest” and “Gifts, Donations, and Sponsorship” 
policies.  
Signature
Print Name
Date:
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Date First Issued:
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Page 17 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Appendix 3 – Template Conflict of Interest Register
INTERESTS REGISTER for recording all interests declared for 
…………………………………service/department
Interest 
Date 
Full description of the 
Actions to be taken to 
Signature of GM, 
declared by:
declared
nature of the interest.
appropriately manage 
CMO, DON, DAH or 
any conflict or potential 
equivalent
conflict.
VAUGHAN
OIA13042021 
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
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Service :
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Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Date First Issued:
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Page 18 of 18
Conflict of Interest Policy
Appendix 4 – Template Gifts and Hospitality Register
GIFTS REGISTER for recording gifts, donations and hospitality over the value of $100 for 
………………………………service/department
Gift declared by
Description of 
Donor
Approx 
Accepted 
Date declared
Gift, Hospitality  
value
/declined
or Benefit
VAUGHAN
OIA13042021 
Document ID:
A5702
CMH Revision No:
4.0
Service :
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Last Review Date :
10/04/2019
Document Owner:
Chief legal advisor
Next Review Date:
10/04/2022
Approved by:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Date First Issued:
23/04/2009
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Appendix 2
Page 1 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Policy:   Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Purpose
Donations and sponsorship may assist Counties Manukau District Health 
Board  (CM  Health) to  enhance  the  services  that it  delivers  for  the  CM 
Health community  and  achieve  its  Triple  Aim  of  improving  population 
health  and  reducing  inequities,  improving  patient  experience  and 
providing value for money.
In relation to the receipt of gifts, donations or sponsorship, the purpose of 
this policy is to ensure that any offer made by an external organisation or 
individual to:
(a) supply goods or services at no financial cost to CM Health;
(b) provide funding voluntarily to CM Health without expectation of
receiving goods or services in return; or
(c) sponsor CM Health activities
is carefully reviewed, and that any risks to CM Health  in accepting the 
donation are minimised.  
This  will  be  particularly  important  where  there  is  a  potential  for  the 
VAUGHAN
commercial  entity  to  gain  public  exposure  as  a  result  of  the  donation, 
potential  for  the  public  to  perceive  that  the  entity  may  gain  some 
advantage  from  CM Health by  providing  the  donation  or  potential  for 
public concern regarding the donation.
In  relation  to  the  provision of  gifts,  donations  or  sponsorship  by  CM
Health  to  an  external  organisation  or  individual,  the  purpose  of  this 
policy  is  to  ensure  that  funds  are  only  provided  in  this  manner  in 
appropriate circumstances and the application of funds in this way  is in 
line with CM Health’s objectives, functions and values.
OIA13042021 
Scope
This  policy  is  applicable  to  all  CM Health  employees,  contractors  and 
Board members in relation to their CM Health activities or any activities 
that could be considered directly or indirectly relating to their CM Health
duties. The policy does not apply to:
(a) small  donations  or  koha  (<$500)  given  by  patients or their  families
for the comfort of patients or staff in the ward or outpatient setting;
(b) gifts  offered  by  external  parties  or  individuals  to  individual  CM
Health  employees  or  groups  of  CM Health  employees  where  these
Document ID:
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CMH Revision No:
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Service :
Last Review Date :
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Document Owner:
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Next Review Date:
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Approved by:
Executive Leadership Team (ELT)
Date First Issued:
30/05/2004
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Page 2 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
arrangements  are  adequately  covered  by  the  general  CM Health 
Conflict of Interest Policy. 
(c) in kind contributions negotiated as part of a service agreement in the 
normal course of business and in accordance with DHB probity and 
procurement processes. 
While the terms “gift”, “donation” and “sponsorship” are predominantly 
used in this document, this Policy also covers any prizes, koha, gratuities 
and hospitality which is provided free of charge and with no expectation 
that  goods  or  services will  be  delivered  in  return.    This  Policy  also 
applies  to  sponsorships  to  attend  conferences  and/or  undertake 
educational activities where those activities are proposed to be paid  for 
by third parties.
For  avoidance  of  doubt,  this  Policy  applies  to  all  areas  of  CM Health.  
The  general  policy  directions  contained  in  this  document  are  also 
applicable to the activities of the Middlemore Foundation.  However, it is 
acknowledged that the Middlemore Foundation has its own processes for 
ensuring that sponsorship arrangements are sought, assessed,  negotiated 
and  managed  in  line  with  the  general  policy  requirements  specified  in 
this document.  As such, the specific processes that will be followed  by 
the Middlemore Foundation when seeking, implementing and managing
sponsorship  arrangements  may  be  different  to  those  specified  for  CM 
VAUGHAN
Health Staff.
Policy
Receiving donations, gifts and sponsorship
From  time  to  time,  CM Health  may  be  offered  donations,  gifts  or 
sponsorship.  These  can  come  from  a  number  of  sources  including 
corporate  entities,  suppliers,  trusts,  patients  and  estates,  which  may  be 
private  or  public  entities,  for-profit  or  not-for-profit.    Donations  are 
valuable  as  they  may  enable  CM Health  to  expand  service  provision, 
enhance patient comfort and further develop health care services to meet 
OIA13042021 
community health needs and aspirations.
Prior to accepting any donation, CM Health must be satisfied that:
(a) there has been a transparent and open process leading up to the offer 
of the donation;
(b) any risks associated with accepting the donation have been carefully 
considered and minimised;
(c) no donor or sponsor (or individual employed by or associated with a 
donor  or  sponsor)  shall  benefit  directly,  or  gain  advantage  over 
Document ID:
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CMH Revision No:
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Service :
Last Review Date :
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organisation
Document Owner:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Next Review Date:
2/02/2024
Approved by:
Executive Leadership Team (ELT)
Date First Issued:
30/05/2004
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Page 3 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
others, in respect of services provided  by  CM Health as a result of 
the donation, gift or sponsorship;
(d) the  donation,  gift  or  sponsorship  complies  with  any  sector  or 
industry codes and guidelines relevant to the proposed donation; 
(e) any conditions attached to the sponsorship or donation are acceptable 
and can be met by CM Health; 
(f) the  donation,  gift  or  sponsorship  does  not  impact  on  CM Health’s 
ability  to  deliver  health  services  safely  and  in  an  manner  that  is 
acceptable to CM Health in all respects; and
(g) appropriate  and  transparent  processes  are  in  place  to  manage  the 
receipt and subsequent use of the donation.
Risks to be considered include:
(a) probity  risks  (for  example,  risks  that  the  donation  may,  or  may  be 
perceived  to:  affect  CM Health’s  impartiality;  place  CM Health 
under  an  obligation  to  the  donating party;  or  have  a  commercial 
influence over CM Health purchasing decisions);
(b) reputational  risks  (for  example,  risks  which  may  be  seen  to  affect 
CM Health’s integrity);
(c) risks  that  the  proposed  donation  does  not  align  with  CM Health’s 
Triple  Aim objectives of  improving population  health and reducing 
VAUGHAN
inequalities,  improving  patient  experience  and  providing  value  for 
money;
(d) risks that the donation will impact on CM Health’s ability to achieve 
its objectives or perform its functions as set out in the New Zealand 
Public Health and Disability Act 2000 (the Act);
(e) risks that accepting the donation would give rise to adverse publicity 
or public concern;
(f) risks relating to any conditions imposed by the donating party on the 
donation.
OIA13042021 
In considering the above, CM Health shall have regard to:
(a) the reasons for the gift being offered;
(b) whether the gift displays an organisation logo or branding;
(c) whether the party making/offering the gift, donation or sponsorship 
has or appears to have values, practices, products or branding which 
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link to page 25 Page 4 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
are  in  conflict  with  the  stated  vision,  objectives  or  policies  of  CM
Health1;
(d) any conditions attached to the donation;
(e) specific wishes of the donor or sponsor;
(f) how the donation may look to the public;
(g) whether  the  donation  might  be  construed  as  providing  access  for 
marketing  by  the  donor  (e.g.  via  branding)  to  the  CM Health
population;
(h) any services provided by the donating party or CM Health contracts 
held by the party;
(i) The benefits to CM Health;
(j) The benefits to the external organisation; and
(k) the value or importance of the gift or donation to CM Health.
Process:
The  following  process  is  to  be  followed  by  staff  members  who  are 
considering receiving a donation, gift or sponsorship:
Step1:
The  appropriate  General  Manager  will  document  a  risk 
analysis  for  acceptance  of  the  proposed  donation,  gift  or 
sponsorship  with  consideration  given  to  the  above  factors.  
VAUGHAN
The  General  Manager  may  approve  the  acceptance  of  gifts 
>$50 or hospitality >$100 but less than $500 .  
Step 2:
The  ELT  Director
associated  with  the  service 
area/Directorate  will  review  the  risk  analysis  and  where 
he/she considers  that  there  are  significant  risks  associated 
with 
it, 
and/or 
the 
proposal 
relates 
to 

gift/donation/sponsorship of a value equal to $500 or greater, 
the proposal is to be considered by the Executive Leadership 
Team, who shall recommend to the Chief Executive Officer 
the actions to be taken with respect to the proposal.
OIA13042021 
Step 3:
If  ELT  is  of  the  view  that  there  are no  significant  risks 
associated  with  accepting, they  shall  promptly  advise  the 
relevant General Manager of this decision in writing.
                                               
1 This is likely to include (but is not limited to) situations where the proposed sponsor or associated party, 
product or service is strongly linked to: 

the production, sale or promotion of tobacco or alcohol

the gambling industry

the production, sale or promotion of food or beverages where the overall or specific approach is in 
conflict with nutrition messages promoted by CM Health
 health products whose use is not endorsed by CM Health (e.g. unresearched medicines or devices).
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Step 4:
As a general rule, acceptance of the donation, sponsorship or 
gift  is to be notified to the donor in  writing.   Any terms of 
acceptance should be specified in writing to ensure that there 
are no subsequent misunderstandings between the donor and 
CM Health.
Figure  1  below  provides  a  summary  of  the  gift,  donation,  sponsorship  approval 
process described above.

Donation, 
No further action.
sponsorship or gift 
Donor/ 
made as arranged.
Sponsor
The Staff Member notifies 
Decision to 
Decision to 
their GM of proposed 
accept donation 
decline donation 
CM Health 
donation, gift or 
notified to the 
notified to the 
Staff Member
sponsorship.
Staff Member
Staff Member
GM undertakes and 
Decision to accept
Decision to decline
CM Health 
documents a risk analysis 
donation notified to 
donation notified to 
General 
for the proposed donation.
the GM.  
the GM.  
Manager
Proposal and GM risk 
Proposal considered high 
No -
analysis considered by 
risk or proposal relates to 
ELT Sub-
Accepted
relevant ELT Director
gift/donation of a value 
committee
equal to $500 or greater
>$500?
Yes
Accepted
Declined
Proposal & 
ELT 
recommendation of the 
VAUGHAN
ELT Director considered 
Committee
by ELT. 
Gift, donation, sponsorship proposal 
Chief 
accepted or declined by CEO.  
Executive 
Officer
OIA13042021 
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Page 6 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Accepting gifts, hospitality or other benefits (such as sponsorship) can in some 
circumstances  cast  doubt  on  the  integrity  and  impartiality  of  CMDHB  and  the 
decisions that the Board makes. Employees must ensure that they comply with 
the  CMDHB  “Gifts  Donations  and  Sponsorship”  Policy  and  that  appropriate 
disclosures are made about any hospitality that is offered or received.  All offers 
of gifts or hospitality must be:
Discussed with the relevant manager or Clinical Head to determine whether
acceptance is  appropriate.   Any  gift  that  is  offered  or  accepted  that  has  a 
value of over $50 must be recorded in the CM Health Gifts Register for the 
relevant Service. Any hospitality that is offered or accepted that has a value 
of  over  $100  must  be  recorded  in  the  CM  Health  Gifts  Register  for  the 
relevant service. The required Gift Register Template is attached at Appendix
1.    Any  gift,  donation  or  sponsorship  over  the  value  of  $500  requires 
consideration  by the Executive Leadership  Team (refer Gifts, Donation  and 
Sponsorship Policy).  Any gifts or offers of hospitality that are declined must 
also be recorded in the Gifts Register.
Employees should be particularly aware that acceptance of any gifts or
hospitality during,  or  in  close  proximity  to,  any  procurement  or  tendering 
process could undermine the probity requirements in relation to purchasing 
transactions,  particularly  if  the  provider  of  the  gift  or  hospitality  has  any 
relationship, or potential relationship with a supplier of goods or services to 
the DHB.
Employees should be aware that these requirements apply to any gifts or
VAUGHAN
hospitality offered or received where they may relate to DHB business, even 
if  offered  to  an  individual in a capacity other than his/her capacity as an
employee of the DHB.
Soliciting Donations or Sponsorship:
CM Health may also wish to solicit donations and sponsorship from external parties 
in order to support organisation objectives that are not already funded under normal 
revenue streams or contracts.
No  staff  member  may  solicit  for donations  or  sponsorship  without  the  express 
approval of their GM , who may set limits on that approval. Consideration should 
OIA13042021 
be given before solicitation about whether the donation or sponsorship contributes 
to CM Health’s achievement of the Triple Aim and whether it could pose any risks 
to the DHB as described in this policy. These issues should be discussed with the 
GM when approval to solicit is sought.  
Staff members who have received approval to solicit donations must ensure that all 
potential donors and sponsors are aware that final decisions regarding acceptance 
of any donation of a value equal to $500 or greater can only be made by the CEO 
(in  accordance  with  the  requirements  specified  above),  in  consultation  with  the 
Executive Leadership Team.
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Managing donations:
If CM Health accepts a donation, gift or sponsorship, CM Health shall subsequently 
ensure that:
(a) Donations  and  sponsorships  received  do  not  distract  staff  energies  or  divert 
CM Health  operating  funds  from  planned  objectives  and  contractual 
responsibilities;
(b) Any conditions attached to the donation or sponsorship (which CM Health has 
accepted) are recorded in writing and notified to the staff members who will be 
responsible for managing the donation;
(c) Specific  wishes  of  the  donor  or  sponsor  in  relation  to  the  donation,  gift  or 
sponsorship  are  met  wherever  possible,  provided  that  the  requests  are 
reasonable;
(d) Gifted  assets,  money  and/or  services  are  managed  appropriately  and  in 
accordance with any agreed conditions;
(e) Donated  or  gifted  monies  that  are  not  directly  or  immediately  spent  on 
products  or  services  are  held  in  trust  by  CM Health  in  a  specific  account 
separate from CM Health’s operating monies;
(f) Expenditure  of  any  sort  from  accounts  holding  donated  or  gifted  money  is 
approved  by  a  CM Health staff  member  with  the  relevant  level  of  delegated 
authority; and
VAUGHAN
(g) Expenditure related from accounts holding donated or gifted funds is recorded 
and reported as part of standard CM Health financial reporting processes.
Providing donations, gifts and sponsorship
In exceptional circumstances, CM Health may choose to provide donations, gifts or 
sponsorship  to  external  organisations  or  individuals.        In  these  situations,  CM
OIA13042021 
Health must be satisfied that:
(a) any  donations  are  consistent  with  CM Health’s  objectives  and 
functions as set out in the Act and relevant planning documents;
(b) the  size  of  any  gift,  donation  or  sponsorship  is  appropriate  for  the 
circumstances;
(c) benefits to CM Health  in  making the donation  are clear and can  be 
justified;
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
(d) the donation does not impact CM Health’s impartiality or integrity, or 
give  rise  to  public  perception  that  impartiality  or  integrity  has  been 
compromised;
(e) in the case of koha, that the koha reflects the occasion and will not be 
confused with any other payments made to the entity;
(f) in  the  case  of  gifts,  that  the  nature  and  the  value  of  the  gift  is 
appropriate for the particular occasion;
(g) any donation is non-political; and
(h) any donation is lawful in all respects;
Any donation, gift or sponsorship for an external organisation or individual must be 
pre-approved  by  the  CEO  who  shall  seek  advice  on  the  risks  associated  with 
providing the donation, if appropriate, from the CM Health Executive Leadership 
Team prior to offering any donation.
If the CEO approves the donation, 
(a) the  monetary  donation  is  recorded  through  normal  CM Health
financial expenditure systems; 
(b) any  conditions  attached  to  the  donation  are  documented  in  writing 
and clearly articulated to the recipient; and
VAUGHAN
(c) the  name  of  donation  recipient  and  purpose  of  the  donation  is 
documented.
(d) A register of these approvals will be kept by the CEO Office.
Middlemore Foundation
CM Health has  a  special  relationship  with  the  Middlemore  Foundation  in  the 
fundraising  area.    As  such,  and  because  the  Middlemore  Foundation  has 
considerable expertise in negotiating and managing sponsorship arrangements, it is 
strongly recommended that they assist in the design, negotiation and management 
of any high value or complex sponsorship agreements.
OIA13042021 
CM Health acknowledges that the Middlemore Foundation has its own processes in 
place to consider the matters specified above.  As part of this process, selected CM 
Health  ELT  members  participate  in  assessments  of  sponsorship  opportunities 
managed by the Middlemore Foundation and are able to request that a sponsorship 
arrangement  be  reviewed  or  considered  by  all  ELT  members  in  appropriate 
circumstances.
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
It is also acknowledged that the Middlemore Foundation makes it clear to donors 
and/or  potential  donors,  that  donations can  only  be  accepted  by  the  CM Health
CEO 
Definitions
Terms and abbreviations used in this document are described below:
Term/Abbreviation
Description
Donation
A payment (either in money or by 
way  of  goods  or  services)  made 
voluntarily 
and 
without 
expectation  that  goods  or  services 
will  be  provided  in  return  but 
usually  with  an  expectation  that 
the  donation  will  be  put  directly 
towards  the  purposes  of  the 
recipient.
Gift
Money, 
service, 
product  or 
tangible  item  given  generally  in 
recognition of something provided 
by the recipient.  Could also be in 
VAUGHAN
the  form  of  free  hospitality  or 
privileged  access  to  goods  or 
services.
Koha
A gift, token or contribution given 
on  appropriate  occasions,  often  as 
a cultural courtesy.
Could  be  considered  a  ‘gift’  or 
‘donation’  depending  on  the 
circumstances  and  purpose  of  the 
koha.
OIA13042021 
Sponsorship
Money, service or product given to 
support  an  organisational  activity 
with, or without, a requirement on 
the  part  of  the  sponsor  to 
publically 
acknowledge 
the 
sponsorship.  Could  also  be  in  the 
form  of
free  hospitality  or 
privileged  access  to  goods  or 
services.
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Supply of goods or services
Includes 
patient 
education 
resources/packs  (as  goods);  for 
example  contributions  to  newborn 
packs  given  to  women  birthing  in 
CM Health facilities
Prize
A gift, token or contribution given 
generally 
in 
recognition 
of 
something 
achieved 
by 
the 
recipient.    Could  also  be  in  the 
form  of  free  hospitality  or 
privileged  access  to  goods  or 
services.
A  prize  could  be  considered  a 
‘gift’,  ‘donation’  or  form  of 
‘sponsorship’  depending  on  the 
circumstances in which the prize is 
given.
Associated Documents
Other documents relevant to this policy are listed below:
VAUGHAN
NZ Legislation
New  Zealand  Public  Health  and 
Disability Act 2000
CM Health  Policies
Conflicts, of Interest  Policy
Delegated Authority Policy
Corporate Relationships Policy
Code of Conduct Policy
Discipline & Dismissal Policy
Fraud  Monitoring  &  Management 
Policy
NZ Standards
None
OIA13042021 
Organisational Procedures
Other related documents

Office  of  the  Auditor  General 
Controlling Sensitive Expenditure: 
Guidance  for  Public  Entities
(2007).
Office  of  the  Auditor  General 
Public  Sector  Purchases,  Grants 
and  Gifts:  Managing  Funding 
arrangements with external parties
(2008).
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Date First Issued:
30/05/2004
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Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
VAUGHAN
OIA13042021 
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Date First Issued:
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Page 12 of 12
Policy: Gifts, Donations and Sponsorship
Appendix 1 – Template Gifts and Hospitality Register
GIFTS REGISTER for recording gifts, donations over the value of $50 and hospitality over
the value of $100 for………………………………service/department
Gift declared by
Description  of 
Donor
Approx 
Accepted
Date declared
Gift, Hospitality 
value
/declined
or Benefit
VAUGHAN
OIA13042021 
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