Losing orthopaedic trainees at Dunedin Hospital is a ''big blow for the South'', Dunedin North MP David Clark says.
Dr Clark believed Dunedin's reputation as a teaching centre for health workers had reached a ''tipping point'' where a loss of confidence was possible.
Dr Clark is campaigning for the Dunedin Hospital clinical services building project to be sped up, which he believes would attract staff and trainees, and relieve pressure on services.
''Students should be learning in a First World hospital, not preparing to work in Third World conditions.
''That's why confidence is needed through the commitment of capital and a concrete plan for a rebuild.''
Last month, on a visit to Dunedin, Health Minister Jonathan Coleman said the Cabinet would not approve the project until next year, because the $300 million it involved a lot of planning.
The Otago Daily Times asked Dr Coleman's office if he was concerned by the loss of the orthopaedic training positions, but a spokeswoman referred the newspaper to the Ministry of Health, which ''has been in touch'' with the Southern District Health Board over the issue.
The ministry said it was an operational issue and any comment should be sought from the board.
