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Asked by
Ayesha Verrall
List MP · Labour Party
Question
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What measures are in place to ensure consistency of ovarian cancer referral pathways across regions, if any?
Answered by
Hon Simeon Brown
Member for Pakuranga · National Party · Minister of Health
Answer
I am advised that 11 of Health New Zealand's 20 districts have adopted pathways that ensure advice is available on accessing specialist blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and referrals to gynaecology services. I am further advised that pathways are available to clinicians as guidance in the remaining nine districts but have yet to be formally adopted. Further work is underway to ensure clinical prioritisation processes are aligned nationally. I am also advised that Health NZ has nationwide criteria to ensure consistent access to pelvic ultrasound imaging.