The document sets out the Ministry’s strategic focus, functions and priorities. It identifies six strategic priorities covering: leadership, systems, future-proofing and adaptation in response to recent health system reform. The strategy also details the integration of the Ministry with other government bodies and it's key role in system-level leadership and the provision of advice.

The Ministry of Health is operating in a challenging context, with an ageing population and increasing demand for health services. Recent health system reforms, including the establishment of Health New Zealand, represent a significant change to the health system landscape. The strategy outlines how the Ministry of Health will work support Health New Zealand and other health entities in the transition to an integrated health system. 

The strategy outlines six strategic priorities and describes priority activities for the coming years within each. The strategic priorities are:

1. provide system-level leadership
2. drive system strategy and performance
3. be the Government’s primary advisor on health
4. future-proof our health system
5. be the regulator of the health system, and
6. transform the Ministry.