Dr Peter Gow, ONZM, Auckland.
For services to health. Dr Peter Gow has been Head of the Department of Rheumatology at Middlemore Hospital, Counties Manukau DHB, since 1978. He is also an honorary clinical Associate Professor at the South Auckland Clinical School. Dr Gow was a foundation trustee of the Centre for Clinical Research and Effective Practice Board, and inaugural Chair of the Counties Manukau District Health Board Research Committee. He has dedicated his medical career to the public health system, and in particular to improvements in patient care in the Counties Manukau District Health Board. He has served in leadership roles on numerous professional bodies. He is a long-time advocate for patient and whānau voices in the provision and planning of health services. He has led the establishment of community-based clinical advisory groups and family meetings in rehabilitation services. Associate Professor Gow is also a highly respected researcher and is currently involved in clinical research trials of several new therapies for treating rheumatoid arthritis.