Health Minister Dr Shane Reti said the initiative would reduce wait times, enhance patient safety, and support vulnerable specialties such as dermatology.
“Our senior doctors are key to keeping our hospitals functioning well, maintaining safety for patients and staff, and delivering quality care for New Zealanders, faster,” said Dr Reti.
The recruitment drive, expected to cost approximately $20 million, will address critical workforce shortages, particularly in regional and provincial hospitals.
An additional $10 million has been allocated for the recruitment of senior specialist nurses and allied health professionals, with particular focus on areas like mental health, maternity, and critical care.
Dr Reti acknowledged the challenges faced in rural areas, saying, “While Health New Zealand has made significant progress recruiting nurses in the last 12 months, there are critical shortages in rural areas and particular specialties.”
A $12 million fund has also been set aside for minor hospital improvements, aimed at enhancing the daily experiences of both patients and frontline staff. The funding, to be distributed across the country’s four health regions, can be used for minor repairs, replacement appliances, or even toys and books for children undergoing treatment.
“This fund is about small changes that make a big difference for our highly valued frontline staff,” said Dr Reti.
He said the funding is part of the Government’s broader strategy to streamline spending and prioritise frontline care.
“In Budget 2024, the Government made a record investment in health of $16.68 billion over three budgets. With this funding, we expect to see improvements in services to New Zealanders, and for Health NZ to live within their means,” Dr Reti said.
He praised Health NZ Commissioner Professor Margie Levy for finding efficiencies within the system and helping direct funding towards critical areas.
“This is about strengthening our clinical workforce and delivering timely access to quality healthcare for New Zealanders,” said Dr Reti.
Broadcaster Chris Lynch is an award winning journalist who also produces Christchurch news and video content for domestic and international companies. Chris blogs at Chris Lynch Media - where this article was sourced.
The recruitment drive, expected to cost approximately $20 million, will address critical workforce shortages, particularly in regional and provincial hospitals.
An additional $10 million has been allocated for the recruitment of senior specialist nurses and allied health professionals, with particular focus on areas like mental health, maternity, and critical care.
Dr Reti acknowledged the challenges faced in rural areas, saying, “While Health New Zealand has made significant progress recruiting nurses in the last 12 months, there are critical shortages in rural areas and particular specialties.”
A $12 million fund has also been set aside for minor hospital improvements, aimed at enhancing the daily experiences of both patients and frontline staff. The funding, to be distributed across the country’s four health regions, can be used for minor repairs, replacement appliances, or even toys and books for children undergoing treatment.
“This fund is about small changes that make a big difference for our highly valued frontline staff,” said Dr Reti.
He said the funding is part of the Government’s broader strategy to streamline spending and prioritise frontline care.
“In Budget 2024, the Government made a record investment in health of $16.68 billion over three budgets. With this funding, we expect to see improvements in services to New Zealanders, and for Health NZ to live within their means,” Dr Reti said.
He praised Health NZ Commissioner Professor Margie Levy for finding efficiencies within the system and helping direct funding towards critical areas.
“This is about strengthening our clinical workforce and delivering timely access to quality healthcare for New Zealanders,” said Dr Reti.
Broadcaster Chris Lynch is an award winning journalist who also produces Christchurch news and video content for domestic and international companies. Chris blogs at Chris Lynch Media - where this article was sourced.
1 comment:
They gonna rehire the “heretic” Covid docs and nurses yet?!? 🤷🏻♂️
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