Dr Ros Pochin, Nelson breast surgeon and chair of the RACS Aotearoa New Zealand National Committee (AoNZNC), says replacing Hon Dr Shane Reti with Hon Simeon Brown as health minister is "a step forward for health in this country, but only a small one".
"While it's heartening to see the Government acknowledging health as a problem area requiring action, changing ministers is not a cure-all," she says.
"If the new Minister doesn't receive the support¬¬-and funding-he needs he will face the same challenges as his predecessors. We risk being back here having this same conversation about the challenges in health this time next year."
Dr Pochin says the current healthcare system is preventing surgeons from delivering the highest standards of care; something they are committed to providing.
"We want to deliver quality healthcare that prioritises patient safety and ensures equitable access and outcomes for all New Zealanders, including Māori, Pacific peoples and other disadvantaged communities.
"Unfortunately, the current healthcare system makes that tough, with long waitlists and burnt-out staff. These are not the components of a sustainable healthcare system."
One of the key issues of growing concern for surgeons is the mismanagement of the health reforms process, creating ongoing upheaval within the workforce and loss of capacity and expertise.
"Taking away jobs for so-called 'backroom' staff and cutting key digital infrastructure projects may save money in the short term, but we see it as a false economy that will have a direct impact on patient outcomes," Dr Pochin says.
"Health NZ must focus on delivering nationally coordinated and integrated digital systems that provide clinicians with the data they need, and allows visibility of patients' clinical records nationwide."
RACS is calling for concrete action to align with the Government's commitment to improve health outcomes, as outlined in the Budget Policy Statement. It would like to see a focused 2025 Health Budget, providing greater investment to reflect modern health needs and cost realities, and a new operating model for Health New Zealand that allows for safe, sustainable healthcare delivery.
Dr Pochin also asks that the new minister and the Commissioner, Professor Lester Levy, collaborate with specialist medical colleges and other key stakeholders, including RACS, which represents a significant proportion of the clinical staff employed by Health New Zealand.
"We are ready, willing, and able to help. Our clinical expertise is at the Government's disposal to ensure that the necessary changes can be made, quickly and effectively and for the benefit of all New Zealanders."
