Dioxin Health Service
A service for people exposed to dioxins from the former Ivon Watkins Dow (IWD) factory in Paritutu, New Plymouth between 1962 and 1987.
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About the Dioxin Health Service
If you were exposed to dioxin from the former Ivon Watkins Dow (IWD) factory in Paritutu, New Plymouth, you may be eligible for the Dioxin Health Service.
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible for the Dioxin Health Service if you lived or worked or went to school near the former IWD factory between 1962 and 1987. Your friends and family may also be eligible for the service.
If you are eligible, you are entitled to an annual health check-up from your health provider. The exact content of the check-up will depend on your health needs. You may also be referred to other health services like smoking cessation, physical activity and nutrition support, primary mental health care, or genetic counselling. Serum dioxin testing may also be available in some circumstances.
Please note, while the annual health check is covered in the Dioxin Health Service, patients will need to pay the usual cost to access referred services.
To use the Dioxin Health Service, you will need to make an application to have your eligibility assessed. Application forms and guidance are available below. Other useful information includes information about dioxin exposure and its association with adverse health effects, and detailed information about the support service.
How to apply
To apply for the Dioxin Health Service, please read the patient factsheet and complete the application form below. For further information, or if you have any questions about the Dioxin Health Service, please email HSS@allenandclarke.co.nz or call 0800 288 588.
Information and application form for patients
Information for health providers
Download Dioxins: A Technical Guide
This guide is for health professionals and others who may have questions about dioxins and their health effects. The guide also includes historic exposure incidents in New Zealand.