Minister’s health reforms behind health strike disruptions

Patients affected by hospital strikes in Auckland and Wellington have Health Minister Annette King to thank for disruptions occurring at the hospitals this week, says National Health Spokesperson Dr Lynda Scott.

Heart and lung technicians and radiographers are striking at Central Auckland Hospitals. Many patients have had surgery cancelled and there is reduced emergency cover at the hospitals. Orderlies are also striking at Wellington and Kenepuru Hospitals tomorrow.

“Health Minister Annette King has instructed health boards to keep costs below 2 percent and this is what has lead to pay negotiations breaking down.

“These hospital strikes, and the subsequent disruption of services, are because the Minister restructured the health system to make it better. The health system is not better, it is in a mess.

“Annette King is underfunding health across the country. The combined hospital deficit has climbed to $237 million and she expects boards to continue to improve health services,” Dr Scott said.

© Scoop Media