44288 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health

44288 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health: What measures, if any, is the Ministry or Minister implementing to ensure equitable access to cardiac services for Māori, especially in high-need regions?

Hon Simeon Brown: I expect Health New Zealand to continue strengthening cardiac services nationwide so all New Zealanders can access timely, quality care. We know there are cardiology shortages in some regions, and recruitment remains a challenge that is not unique to New Zealand. As part of our focus on putting patients first and ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare, I am advised that Health New Zealand is growing the cardiac sonographer workforce, funding training for 26 new sonographers. Ten are expected to graduate this year, with the remainder next year, and successful candidates will be offered employment. Importantly, this training is now taking place in New Zealand hospitals rather than overseas. I am further advised that the Cardiac National Clinical Network is working to address service variations and improve consistency of care. Too many New Zealanders are still waiting too long for treatment, including cardiac care, and reducing waitlists remains a key priority for me.