The New Zealand government has unveiled a new health infrastructure plan involving the creation of 10 service delivery networks across the country. This plan aims to improve the planning and delivery of health infrastructure projects, addressing issues highlighted by projects like the troubled Dunedin hospital.
The plan has sparked debate, with some, including Dr. John Chambers, suggesting it resembles a return to a district health board (DHB) system, which was abolished in 2022. Dr. Chambers criticizes the current Health New Zealand (HNZ) structure, calling it a 'disaster' and predicting an eventual return to a DHB-type model due to the complexities of managing the entire country's health infrastructure from a single agency.
Richard Thomson, a former chair of the Otago DHB, suggests merit in centralizing certain services but emphasizes the need for local knowledge and accountability in regional health decisions. He draws parallels with the old Ministry of Works model, highlighting the importance of consistent work programs and avoiding constant staff turnover. Green MP Scott Willis expresses concern that the plan lacks concrete action and sufficient funding.