Urgent care funding reviews under way, HNZ says

Urgent Doctors at 18 Filleul St. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH
Urgent Doctors at 18 Filleul St. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH
Urgent care funding reviews are under way, but Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand (HNZ) has not said when this could result in a boost for Dunedin.

It is working to ensure continued service at the Dunedin Urgent Doctors and Accident Centre, which has called for rapid support from the health system.

Earlier this week the centre warned it would have to reduce services later this year unless given a funding boost.

General manager Adam O’Byrne said despite high demand the centre, at present open between 8am and 10pm every day, was likely to reduce its day service — a move that would put more pressure on the hospital emergency department and general practices.

Talks with HNZ Southern had been promising, but words alone would not save the centre.

The health system had provided more support to urgent clinics in some other parts of the country, he said.

"The wheels are turning too slow here in Southern, and it is another case of postcode lottery for our patients, who deserve better."

HNZ South Island living well regional manager Andrew Goodger said the organisation was grateful for the service the centre provided.

"We appreciate that this service helps alleviate pressure on other health services and is a valuable service for our local community.

"Te Whatu Ora is aware of the issues and is working in partnership with WellSouth to address these to ensure a continued and sustainable service," he said.

HNZ was completing a national review of primary care funding, included urgent care, he said.

Another review that included urgent and after-hours services along with ambulance services and telehealth was also under way.

It would look at what needed to be done to improve unplanned care, including examining problems and cost pressures.

 

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