37543 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

37543 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What actions, if any, have been taken in the last three months to 10 June 2024 to refocus the Return to Midwifery programme to help our midwives return to practice, as outlined in Te Whatu Ora's health workforce plan?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised the midwifery return to practice fund was re-launched in February 2024 to attract midwives back to the profession. The funding available has been increased to reflect the actual costs incurred for the programme and it also offers additional support for transport, family care or other relevant miscellaneous costs up to a set limit. The increased funding is also available to midwives currently on the programme with the aim to incentivise completion.