Why Doctors Are Striking A Wake-Up Call for NZ's Health System

Dr Julian Vias, a respiratory paediatrician and member of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, discussed the ongoing strike due to inadequate pay offers from Health New Zealand, which have fallen below inflation rates. This situation has led to a real terms pay cut for medical professionals, prompting the strike as a necessary action to address chronic understaffing and improve recruitment and retention in the healthcare sector.

Dr Vias emphasised the emotional toll this situation takes on medical staff, who prioritise their patients above all else. He highlighted the importance of creating a sustainable workforce to ensure that healthcare professionals can effectively care for patients, despite the current challenges they face.

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