‘Threatens to waste healthcare resources’: Māori academics ask government to rescind ‘colourblind’ directive

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27 Sep 2024

RNZ

A group of Māori academics and health workers are asking the government to rescind its recent directive for public services to be based on need, not race.

In an editorial published in the New Zealand Medical Journal, academics including Papaarangi Reid, Elana Curtis and Rhys Jones said the directive will result in wasteful health spending by limiting the ability to target resources at those in greatest need.

One of the authors, public health physician Dr Belinda Loring, said they saw the directive as unjustified and dangerous.

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Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.