Return to regionalised health system will ease staff shortages, Health Minister says

9 Aug 2024

RNZ

A return to a more regionalised health system will ease the dire staffing problems facing Northland’s rural hospitals, Health Minister Shane Reti says.

Dr Reti was in the north on Friday to visit a newly built aged care centre and a new medical imaging clinic, both in Kerikeri, but his visit came against the backdrop of a staffing crisis in the region’s rural hospitals.

Dargaville Hospital made national headlines earlier this month when it was no longer able to find enough doctors to fill its rosters, leaving a telehealth business – which uses a remote doctor to see patients via an internet video call – to fill the gap.

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Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.