Disability support services and the reforms.

Features of disability support service provision in New Zealand are examined. Factors influencing the restructuring of the disability support services are identified in the context of international comparisons. Reference is made to the debate on the health/welfare interface, policy trends that have favoured a shift from institutional to community care and the need to contain escalating public health service expenditure. Changes to the disability support services under the new Regional Health Authority structure are outlined. Thereafter, the influence of the reforms in redressing the problems inherent in the long-term care services is analysed, as well as the possible consequences of the changes.