29th - 30th March 2025

Cordis Hotel, Auckland

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Mahi Tahi I Roto I Te Pokanga – Collaboration in Surgery

Kia Ora! Welcome to the NZAGS Annual Scientific Meeting 2025 being held at the Cordis Hotel in the city of sails – Auckland! This year, we are excited to gather under the timely theme of Mahi Tahi I Roto I Te Pokanga – “Collaboration in Surgery.” As the field of surgery continues to evolve in tandem with technological advancements, multidisciplinary approaches, and increasing global connectivity, the importance of collaboration has never been more crucial to patient outcomes, professional growth, and the overall progress of our discipline.

We are particularly fortunate this year to be joined by five esteemed overseas speakers, each of whom brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from diverse corners of the globe. Their presence not only enriches our program but also serves as a reminder that the surgical community is part of a global network, united by our common goal of improving patient care. Through collaboration, we can share best practices, innovations, and challenges, fostering an environment of learning that transcends borders.

Thank you for being part of this important conversation. We welcome you to Auckland, and look forward to the meaningful discussions, shared learning, and new partnerships that will emerge over the course of this meeting. Let’s make the most of this unique opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and inspire each other.

Warm regards,
Conveners
Li Hsee, Julian Hayes, Angela Bayley, Vanessa Blair, Nick Evennett

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What is the National Intestinal Failure and Rehabilitation Service (NIFRS)?

The New Zealand National Intestinal Failure and Rehabilitation Service (NIFRS) is designed to improve outcomes for patients of all ages with intestinal failure (IF). The NIFRS is a national service provided by Auckland District Health Board on behalf of the Ministry of Health.  The NIFRS provides support to clinicians and allied health staff managing patients with IF.

The purpose of NIFRS

• Ensure equitable access to IF services for patients and their families
• Create standards of care and clinical management protocols for IF
• Improve communication and coordination of care for patients and their families
• Advocate for IF patients and their families
• Provide data that will improve quality of care for patients with IF.

What this means for you

Intestinal failure is defined as a dependency on intravenous nutrition (IVN) which is also called parenteral nutrition (PN). Any fluid that contains amino acids (excluding blood products) delivered intravenously is considered to be intravenous nutrition.

For patients and families: your clinician will contact NIFRS and will provide you with information on how the service will assist you and your clinician in your care.

For clinicians: more information about notifications, shared care and education resources are located under Clinical Information section. Please contact NIFRS for login details.

How NIFRS will improve outcomes for IF patients

• A register of all patients with IF will provide data that will inform quality improvement.
• A notification process for patients with IF. Notification may result in a virtual consultation, clinic assessment or inpatient transfer. It is anticipated that care for most patients will be delivered by their local care team in partnership with the NIFS, meaning the patient remains under the care of their home DHB wherever possible.
• A shared care model will help with communication between clinicians and patients. Shared care is structured and inclusive care which is developed in partnership between the patient, their family/carers and health professionals.
• National standards will help to ensure high quality care for all patients with IF.
• Education resources will be developed for both patients with IF and the clinicians caring for them.

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The ASPEN 2025 Nutrition Science & Practice Conference is an excellent opportunity for researchers to showcase their work, share their findings with a diverse multidisciplinary audience, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers and experts. By presenting your research, you not only contribute to the advancement of knowledge but also gain valuable feedback and insights that can enhance your work. Don’t miss this chance to network, collaborate, and elevate your professional profile!

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