Warning For All In Wellington Health Contracts

Heather Roy Friday, 16 June 2006 Press Releases - Health

ACT Health spokesman Heather Roy is warning that patients around the country can expect to receive a bill for laboratory tests if changes in Wellington's lab contracts are expanded.

"People in Wellington and the Hutt Valley who see a private specialist will be expected to pay for lab tests after 1 November, while those who see a public specialist will not", Mrs Roy said.

"Government policies have been undermining private providers, and DHBs are looking for ways to make savings.

"This announcement in the Wellington region should serve as a warning for patients across New Zealand that they may get a bill for lab tests if they see a private specialist.

"Other DHBs will be searching for cost savings to avoid financial deficits.

"If implemented, patients can expect to see health insurance premiums rise, and waiting lists of people waiting to see a public specialist will lengthen.

"This decision devalues the work of private specialists, who deserve recognition and reward for helping contain waiting lists.

"If expanded across the country it will add more costs, delays and pressure in our already overloaded health system", Mrs Roy said.

ENDS

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