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What Are the Consequences of the 450 Job Losses in New Zealand’s Healthcare?
New Zealand’s healthcare system is set to lose about 450 critical jobs as part of the government’s latest budget cuts. The losses affect both frontline and support roles at a time when hospitals are already struggling with severe staff shortages and resource limitations.
While many redundancies are voluntary, some are mandated, sparking concerns among managers about the future of essential services.
Ashok Shankar, Public Service Association Organiser, raises alarm over the untenable pressure faced by healthcare workers left behind after recent job cuts.
The PSA warns that these reductions threaten essential public health services, including specialist care and hospital treatment, putting patient safety at risk.
According to Shankar, “Redundancies mean remaining staff are heading towards burnout and this poses a threat to public and workplace health and safety. The staffing cuts impact essential services, and it’s not too late for the government to reverse its decision on health cuts.”
The recent wave of voluntary redundancies, coinciding with government-enforced hiring freezes, leads to the loss of essential hospital workers. The reduction directly affects public health services, planning, and national healthcare strategies.
Members of the PSA report that among the roughly 450 redundancies, many are voluntary redundancies despite their applications being denied by their line managers.
Existing staff are forced to take on increased workloads, with numerous positions remaining vacant, resulting in missed breaks and extended hours, which compromise patient care standards.
The consequences are particularly severe in mental health services, where patients report waiting up to 72 hours for the care they need.
The future of New Zealand’s healthcare system looks uncertain without immediate intervention. As job losses continue to mount, both the quality and availability of healthcare services are in jeopardy. Communities across New Zealand are starting to experience the effects, and the PSA warns that without urgent action, the health of future generations could be compromised.
We have the opportunity to address the pressing issues Kiwis face in healthcare across the country. By offering our services and products, and actively supporting social causes, together, we can make a huge difference and help alleviate these healthcare challenges.