45843 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health

45843 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health: Were any impact assessments undertaken prior to the decision to reduce ICU staffed capacity at Christchurch Hospital from 36 to 24 beds, and if so, what risks were identified, if any?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that Christchurch Hospital’s ICU has not previously operated with its full physical capacity of 36 beds, and therefore no impact assessment was required. I am further advised that between September 2023 and August 2025, 24 staffed beds have met demand 97.94% of the time, based on actual occupancy data. Capacity is flexed up to 28 beds as needed to respond to patient acuity and service demand, ensuring patients continue to receive timely, quality care.