67797 (2024). Hon Barbara Edmonds to the Minister of Health

67797 (2024). Hon Barbara Edmonds to the Minister of Health: Does the Minister believe that using telehealth services at Kenepuru Accident & Medical Clinic is a frontline cut?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: Health New Zealand has responsibility to ensure the clinically appropriate care is available for people who seek treatment across the health system, which includes Kenepuru Accident and Medical Clinic. I am advised that offering support through a telehealth option is only for the overnight period; at all other times, people presenting to Kenepuru Accident and Medical Clinic will have a face-to-face appointment. I am further advised that Health NZ has contracted a telehealth provider to provide an option for nursing staff in the event there is unplanned absence of medical staff overnight, for example, due to sickness. I am advised that there have been no roster gaps requiring use of the service to date.