Health Improvement Practitioner
Also known as Wellness Advisor
A health improvement practitioner is a registered health practitioner. HIPs provide support for people with concerns about mental health, addiction, long-term conditions and general wellbeing. They offer a free service and are based in general practice and provide brief interventions to improve wellbeing.
1.
sleep problems
2.
chronic pain
3.
anxiety and stress
4.
identity issues including cultural, sexual and gender
5.
improving social issues (parenting, relationships, loneliness, domestic violence)
But HIPs are not limited to working in specific areas, they're generalists and will work with anyone about anything.
Who is a Health Improvement Practitioner?
A model of care currently being established in Aotearoa New Zealand includes health improvement practitioners (HIPs), health coaches and community support for people with concerns around mental health and wellbeing or addiction. The model (Te Tumu Waiora) is based in primary care meaning that HIPs can provide on-the-spot support for you at the same place you see your general practice team.
A health improvement practitioner (HIP) is a registered health professional. All HIPs are qualified with at least a degree in one of a range of disciplines:
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy
- Mental health nursing
- Social work
- Occupational therapy
- DAPAANZ registered counsellor
They also have experience in promoting emotional and physical wellbeing.
What should I expect when i see a HIP
A typical brief intervention consultation with a health improvement practitioner will take 15-30 minutes. It includes asking some questions to find out what you would like to work on that day that would be the most helpful.
This may include problem solving, planning, referrals or education. All patients leave with a wellbeing plan. Some people get what they need in one session, but you can return for follow-up sessions or to work on something new.
What other things can HIPs help with?
HIPs can support patients to contact other services or find supports, manage change, advocate, research and build relationships.
A HIP may also support the personal and professional development of the practice team they work with. Through this, other general practice team members can develop further skills in providing mental wellbeing and addiction support for their patients.
What a HIP session is NOT
Because the aim of the HIP role is to help as many people as possible, the brief intervention format is not designed to provide long-term therapy, trauma therapy or counselling. A brief intervention focusses on the present moment with the aim of providing you with some skills, knowledge or insight to support your goals, values in life and physical and mental wellbeing.
