Skip to main content

What measures are in place to ensure consistency of ovarian cancer referral pathways across regions, if any?

Answered Question 32198 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged

Asked by

Ayesha Verrall

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • 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.