13319 (2026). Tākuta Ferris to the Minister of Health

13319 (2026). Tākuta Ferris to the Minister of Health: What formal escalation pathways exist for patients whose condition deteriorates while waiting for a first specialist appointment, and how are patients and GPs informed of these options?

Hon Simeon Brown:  I am advised that if a patient’s condition changes or worsens, their GP can submit an updated or urgent referral; request reprioritisation, or contact the relevant hospital or specialty service directly for clinical advice or expedited assessment. Decisions are made on the basis of clinical need, consistent with national planned care prioritisation frameworks.