11. Hon RUTH DYSON (Labour—Port Hills) Link to this
to the Minister of Health
Is he confident that the announcement of 10 November regarding neurosurgery services in the South Island will provide a sustainable service?
Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health) Link to this
I have been assured that the configuration of the South Island neurosurgical services recommended by the expert panel is sustainable. Having said that, building the service will not happen overnight. A number of things have to click into place, such as staff being recruited at both the university and the district health board level.
What was his response to the letter from Canterbury neurosurgeon Ronald Boet stating that he would resign if the announced model was imposed on him?
I do not recall receiving that letter. My comment would be that the important thing we need to do for the South Island is to have a service that is sustainable and that will provide for the future. That certainly is the recommendation that has come from the independent panel, and I think that would be very good for New Zealand. I know that policy has been welcomed by the member’s two colleagues from Dunedin.
What was his response to the letter from Canterbury paediatric neurosurgeon Martin MacFarlane stating that he would retire from his profession if the announced model was imposed on him?
I am aware that a number of people around the countryside may not be happy with what is being proposed, but let us remember that the reason why this review was started was that the doctors could not agree and the district health boards could not agree. That is why a decision was made. If the member opposite is saying that the Labour Party’s position is that it wants a one-site service run from Christchurch, then I find that very interesting.
Why will children from the whole of the South Island have to travel to Auckland for neurosurgery; and does he care enough about them to act on their behalf?