Media Release
24 March 2004
Minister Lets Health System Lapse Into Chaos
New Zealand first is again calling on the Government to fix the ailing health system following yet another damning
report into the state of public hospitals.
The Health Ministry report for the quarter ending September 2003 shows that emergency patients are waiting too long for
treatment in 17 out of 21 district health boards.
“We are talking about seriously ill patients who need immediate attention, yet they are waiting much longer than the
recommended 10 minutes for treatment. This is an appalling situation that must be rectified,” said health spokesperson
Barbara Stewart.
“We are fast approaching crisis point and lives are being endangered yet nobody wants to take responsibility.
“It is time for this Government to admit it is at fault and starting fixing the problem before it is too late.
“Our primary concern must be that patients needs are met and met in time. The Government must act now,” said Mrs
Stewart.
ENDS