Skip to main content

Will providers of outsourced ophthalmology be required to provide equitable access for cataract services across districts, if so what weighting, if any, will this requirement be given?

Answered Question 16441 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged
Bookmark

Asked by

Ayesha Verrall

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Will providers of outsourced ophthalmology be required to provide equitable access for cataract services across districts, if so what weighting, if any, will this requirement be given?

Answered by

Hon Simeon Brown

Member for Pakuranga · National Party · Minister of Health

Answer

I am advised that all Health New Zealand districts are required to consider equity of access when allocating patients for all outsourced surgical procedures. This includes consideration of proximity of the provider to the patient, available transport arrangements, and provider facilities.