39606 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

39606 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: Which frontline services, if any, have been amended, downgraded or paused due to a lack of gynaecologists at Te Whatu Ora Health NZ since November 2023?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that no frontline services in the Northern or Midland regions have been amended, paused, or downgraded due to a lack of gynaecologists since November 2023. I am further advised that in the Central region, while no services have been downgraded, the region has changed the operating model for complex gynaecology oncology. This is due to the ongoing global war for talent - a challenge that is not unique to New Zealand. As I said in Written Parliamentary Question 27452 (2025), these challenges existed prior to November 2023. I am also advised that in the South Island, Canterbury General Gynaecology clinics have had exclusions in place for specific referrals since December 2021. As part of our focus on putting patients first and ensuring that all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare, an action plan is under development to ensure consistent clinical access across Canterbury.