Health Minister: more funding for low cost GP practices

Health Minister’s announcement on more funding for low cost GP practices

Professor Jenny Carryer (Massey University, and College of Nurses Aotearoa (NZ) Inc) is delighted to see the Health Ministers statement today on the increase in funding to VLCA practices who are struggling to provide care to some of New Zealand's most vulnerable people. Minister Ryall is to be congratulated for recognising the importance of pre-emptive primary health care for those living with financial deprivation.

It is however disappointing to see the use of the term "to pay for doctors’ visits". General Practice has been at great pains to move towards a team approach to care for those attending and to recognising that patients will receive care from the most appropriate member of the workforce, be that a general practitioner a nurse practitioner or a primary health care nurse. It is to be hoped that this slip in terminology and that the funding is indeed available to support the spectrum of care.

The scholarships to support new graduates into VCLA practices for a year is an excellent move to ensure we are growing replacements for the large number of nurses drawing close to retirement age.

Information about the College of Nurses
The College is a professional body of New Zealand Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners from all regions and specialties. It provides a voice for the nursing profession and professional commentary on issues which affect nurses, and also the health of the whole community. Its aim is to support excellence in clinical practice, research and education and to work with consumers to influence health policy. The College is committed to the Treaty of Waitangi and the improvement of Maori health. This commitment is reflected in the bicultural structure of the organisation.

The College of Nurses Vision is “100% Access, Zero Disparities in healthcare for all New Zealanders.

www.nurse.org.nz

ENDS

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