NZMA welcomes moves on loans and debt

Tuesday 26 July 2005

NZMA welcomes moves on loans and debt

The New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) today welcomed the Government’s announcements on student fees and debt made as part of its Tertiary Policy, today.

“While we have yet to see the details, the ‘headlines’ we have seen are most welcome” said Dr Ross Boswell, NZMA Chairman. “Student and junior doctor debt has been a major factor in medical workforce shortages and the decision to cease charging interest on student loans will have a significant effect.”

“We are also very pleased to see the commitment from Labour to review the funding arrangements for medical and dental students” said Dr Boswell. “The so-called fees maxima policy has been an absolute failure for medical students, with their fees having increased 20% over the last two years.”

Dr Boswell added “the NZMA and the New Zealand Medical Students’ Association (NZMSA) have worked closely together to press our concerns about debt as it effects medical students and junior doctors. It is heartening to see that at last we have been heard.”

ENDS

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