16325 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

16325 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What plans does Health New Zealand have to ensure that patients with head and neck cancers receive timely, coordinated, and equitable access to surgical care?

Hon Simeon Brown: As the Member will be aware, our Government has brought back health targets to get health back on track, including targets that will help ensure patients with head and neck cancers have access to timely, quality healthcare, such as our target for faster cancer treatment, shorter wait times for first specialist assessments, and shorter wait times for elective treatment. As the Member will also be aware, specific plans for patients are discussed with the patient to determine what is the best option for them.