NEW ZEALAND MEDICAL ASSOCIATION MEDIA RELEASE
FROM: Susan Budd, Communications Manager
DATE: Thursday, 14 August, 2003
NZMA Welcomes Step Up Scholarships
NZMA Chairman Dr Tricia Briscoe and New Zealand Medical Students Association (NZMSA) President Brandon Adams have made a
joint statement applauding the new Step Up tertiary scholarships announced by Associate Minister of Education Hon Steve
Maharey and Minister of Health Hon Annette King today.
‘The NZMA strongly welcomes this innovative step from the Government,’ says Dr Briscoe. ‘It has recognised the threat to
the health workforce caused by huge student debt levels and will do much to reduce stress from the burden of debt for
some medical students. We do recognise, however, that it does not address the debt levels of present and recent
students, or of future students ineligible for the scheme.’
Mr Adams says that the NZMSA are very pleased to see critical elements from their policies reflected in the policy
announced today.
‘The scholarships are substantial and will make a difference. Although there are return of service requirements, they
seem to be flexible enough to make it an attractive option for those who are eligible,’ he says.
Both Mr Adams and Dr Briscoe agree that the scholarships will help improve doctors’ retention levels and provide
opportunities for New Zealanders who may not have otherwise been able to consider a career in medicine.
‘Both the NZMA and NZMSA are happy to continue to work with the Government to develop further initiatives in support of
the medical workforce,’ says Dr Briscoe.
ENDS