The former Counties Manukau DHB has been slated for not providing culturally appropriate care for a Cook Islands Maori woman

She was referred to mental health services for severe anxiety -- and died three months later after being found unconscious in her home.

Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner, Dr Vanessa Caldwell, says the woman's cultural needs were never assessed, and she wasn't told of support options.

As a result, Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau's Mental Health & Addiction service, has made changes -- including the creation of Pacific and Maori Cultural Liaison teams.