It is my pleasure to invite you to the third annual IPAC Conference in Auckland.

Our first conference, in 2004, introduced "Organised General Practice"; a phrase that reflects the extraordinary changes in primary care ushered in by IPAs over the previous decade. In 2005 the Christchurch conference demonstrated how OGP remains even more relevant in the newer PHO environment. Delegates from a wide range of health sector organisations warmly received both conferences.

We remain excited by the possibilities of Organised General Practice, and in particular the ability to deliver significant and demonstrable improvement in health outcomes. IPAC 06 will continue to explore and develop key aspects in greater detail. We will ask what motivates and delivers excellence in performance. What works, and why? What doesn't and why not? How can we ensure that success in one clinical area, or region of New Zealand, can be sustained, improved and shared more widely?

We are delighted to have confirmed Dr Richard Smith as one of the keynote speakers at our conference. Dr Smith was for 13 years the editor of the British Medical Journal and has been a central figure in the world of scientific and medical publishing. In 2004 he became chief executive of a new company started in Europe by UnitedHealth Group, the largest health and well being company in the United States of America. He combines his experience with an outstanding ability to communicate. Further keynote speakers will be announced early in 2006.

We promise another stimulating conference, in a fantastic venue in an exciting city. We look forward to welcoming you to IPAC 06, on 06-08 October 2006.

Kind regards
Victor Klap
Conference Committee Chair