Southern’s Appalling Meals a Warning for All DHBS
Barbara Stewart MP
Spokesperson for Health
5 FEBRUARY
2016
Southern’s Appalling Meals a Warning for All DHBS
Southern District Health Board’s failed outsourcing of kitchen services should be a warning for other DHBs around the country not to follow suit, says New Zealand First.
“That low quality meals are being delivered to patients is a disgrace, and the outcry from the people of Dunedin and Invercargill has been loud and prolonged,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Health Barbara Stewart.
“It’s ridiculous that food is being prepared and frozen in Auckland and then transported south for delivery.
“The meals should be prepared locally to ensure the food quality is closely monitored and that local people are employed.
“This is a clear warning to DHBs around the country not to give in to government pressure and deliver sub-standard food services for patients just to cut costs.
“DHBs should be focusing on ensuring all patients are receiving the services they need, including meals, that best benefit their health.
“Patients should not suffer just to save money,” says Mrs Stewart.
ENDS