Jade (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Kahungunu) works both clinically as an Endocrinologist at the Waikato District Health Board and as a Senior Lecturer with Te Kupenga Hauora Māori, University of Auckland. Her appointment gives her an avenue to continue her research, while also helping to develop the next generation of Māori clinicians. She is the co-ordinator of the Māori health curriculum for the clinical years (MBChB 4-6).
Jade’s passion is Māori health and sees critique of the health system’s processes as important. She has developed her skills as a researcher, with a PhD through The University of Auckland looking at the impact thyrotoxicosis on Māori. Her research interests include investigating ethnic inequalities in health using a Kaupapa Māori Research framework in order to eliminate existing disparities. She has a particular focus on reviewing inequities through a lens of assessing the role a healthcare system plays in perpetuating inequities.
She grew up in the Waikato before studying medicine at The University of Auckland. Having returned to the Waikato, Jade now balances this with her love of clinical care with her drive for equity in both of her roles. She thrives and remains grounded (most of the time) with the support of her wider whānau/family, her supportive husband and their two tamariki ataahua/ beautiful children.
