13353 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health

13353 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health: What actions, if any, is the Minister taking to retain medical graduates in regional primary care?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that the new medical school at the University of Waikato will have a focus on those living in more rural communities and who have a specific interest in primary care. In addition, a domestic primary care pathway for medical graduates is being introduced to encourage more to become general practitioners (GPs). I am further advised that the voluntary bonding scheme is designed to retain health professionals, including GP trainees, in regional areas. The 2025 intake of the scheme accepted 50 rural and regional GP trainees. In addition, the Government recently announced a $1 million investment to train rural GPs to deliver local planned care services. The funding will cover agreed training costs and cover for GPs while they train, enabling rural practitioners to take part without the burden of having to leave their patients and businesses. In addition to supporting care closer to home for people living in rural areas, we expect this investment will support GPs to increase their skills from their rural bases, and support thriving rural careers.