Govt underfunding leaves Auckland DHB in $12 million hole

The Public Service Association says chronic underfunding of DHBs by the Government is to blame for the $12 million hole Auckland DHB is in.

“The Government is skimping on DHB budgets, while staff and patients pay the price,” said Warwick Jones, PSA Assistant Secretary.

“The PSA wants ADHB to talk to us and discuss constructive solutions, rather than leaving worried staff in the dark.

“Staff may be anxious about the future following these reports, so an open culture of engagement with their unions is needed to allay their concerns.

“Suggestions that staff vacancies may remain unfilled to save money is bad news for staff and patients.

"Auckland DHB services a rapidly growing population, and provides specialist services for other DHBs, and it requires adequate staffing levels to serve these needs.

“Chronic underfunding of DHBs is the root cause of the issue, so Government needs to step up for New Zealanders' health and wellbeing,” said Warwick Jones.

ENDS

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