November 15, 2011
NZRGPN calls for greater primary health care focus
The next government needs to focus its attention on primary care within the health system, as there is clear evidence in
rural communities that a good primary care system is essential to address health needs, according to the New Zealand
Rural General Practice Network.
The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network is a not-for-profit organisation that advocates for rural general
practices New Zealand-wide. It operates a separate arm that recruits GPs and Nurse Practitioners to work in rural New
Zealand.
Network chairman Dr Jo Scott-Jones says rural communities in New Zealand generate 80 percent of GDP and represent 22
percent of the population.
“Rural areas are often areas of high needs, with a low socio-economic status and a high proportion of Maori in the
population. We are hoping that the next government will provide clear leadership in addressing the health care needs of
rural communities.
“In particular we want to see policies that include a focus that help us to retain the providers we currently have in
rural communities, through improved working conditions and career opportunities.
“We want to see policies that focus on increasing the available health workforce through strengthening career pathways
and providing financial and infrastructure support for training of health professionals in rural communities.
“We want to see policies that address the increasing burden of after-hours care on providers, so that we can continue to
serve our communities into the future, improvements in rural obstetric care, rural palliative care, and rural emergency
care.
“We want to see policies that put an emphasis on supported self and home care, and building resilient rural communities
through community engagement in their health care systems.”
ENDS