Minister’s health reforms behind health strike disruptions
Patients affected by hospital strikes in Auckland and Wellington have Health Minister Annette King to thank for
disruptions occurring at the hospitals this week, says National Health Spokesperson Dr Lynda Scott.
Heart and lung technicians and radiographers are striking at Central Auckland Hospitals. Many patients have had surgery
cancelled and there is reduced emergency cover at the hospitals. Orderlies are also striking at Wellington and Kenepuru
Hospitals tomorrow.
“Health Minister Annette King has instructed health boards to keep costs below 2 percent and this is what has lead to
pay negotiations breaking down.
“These hospital strikes, and the subsequent disruption of services, are because the Minister restructured the health
system to make it better. The health system is not better, it is in a mess.
“Annette King is underfunding health across the country. The combined hospital deficit has climbed to $237 million and
she expects boards to continue to improve health services,” Dr Scott said.