22826 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

22826 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What has been the total cost to Health New Zealand of providing digital health consults via overseas-based doctors since 27 November 2023, broken down by hospital and month?

Hon Simeon Brown: As the Member will be aware, Health New Zealand provides digital health consults through agreements with New Zealand-based third parties as part of our focus on putting patients first and ensuring that all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare. I am advised that Health New Zealand does not hold information on the cost of providing these services via overseas-based doctors, as these would be employment matters for third parties.