Government must become involved in health workplace situation
22 May, 2007
It's time for the Government to create a workplace environment in which the health workforce can function effectively, says the New Zealand Medical Association.
Last year many parts of the health sector were affected by industrial action, and indications are that this year will be the same.
"The NZMA is extremely worried about the employment environment, as the workforce is already facing shortages and stresses," said NZMA Chairman Dr Peter Foley. "Health professionals are highly sought after internationally, so it's vital that they made to feel valued working here."
While those not on strike work very hard during periods of industrial action, it is inevitable that patients will miss out on vital services
"DHBs seem hamstrung by limited funding - which is why the NZMA is calling on the Minister of Health to take responsibility and step in and help sort this out.
"Taking a hands-off approach is extremely unhelpful - both for the thousands of New Zealanders who are affected patients, and for the vulnerable workforce.
"The Government has an overall responsibility to establish a more appropriate
workplace environment. This can't just be left to the DHBs and unions involved -
there needs to be a political will to improve the situation by adequately
funding DHBs for the inevitable rising costs of retaining quality staff in all
aspects of patient care."