New Zealand Considers Sending Gynaecological Cancer Patients to Australia Amid Specialist Shortage

Health NZ Te Whatu Ora is reportedly preparing to send patients with gynaecological cancers to Australia in a last-resort move, citing a severe shortage of specialist gynaecology oncologists in New Zealand. This decision comes as the health system grapples with long-standing workforce challenges and an increasing demand for cancer care.

The Crisis in Gynaecological Oncology Services

According to internal reports, the shortage of specialist gynaecology oncologists has left key regions, including Wellington, without access to essential surgical services. Health NZ has been exploring the practicalities and costs of sending patients to Australia, should efforts to improve local services fail.

Currently, the medium-term plan involves centralizing complex gynaecological oncology surgery in Christchurch and Auckland hospitals, with most patients from Wellington and surrounding areas being flown to Christchurch for treatment. Some specialists will travel from Christchurch to Wellington for regular clinics, but this arrangement carries risks of overwork and burnout for Christchurch doctors, potentially impacting South Island services.

Workforce Challenges and Training Gaps

One of the key challenges is the lack of training opportunities for gynaecological oncologists in New Zealand. Many trainees have been leaving for Australia, where demand for these specialists is high. Of the last eight trainees who completed their training in New Zealand, only one has returned for a full-time role in the country.

Labour’s health spokeswoman, Ayesha Verrall, criticized the current state of the health system, stating that women should be able to receive treatment for gynaecological cancers in their local communities, not be sent overseas.

The Impact on Doctors and Patients

Doctors working in gynaecological oncology have been stretched thin, with many working far beyond their capacity. The Cancer Society’s medical director, Kate Gregory, noted that the current system is held together by the dedication of these doctors, who are seeing more patients and performing more surgeries than ever before.

Additionally, the use of robotic surgery in Australia has created a skills mismatch with New Zealand, where most surgery is still performed using traditional techniques. This makes it difficult for internationally trained surgeons to adapt to the New Zealand system without additional training.

Government Response and Future Steps

Health Minister Chris Hipkins has acknowledged the challenges facing the health system, including the impact of previous restructuring efforts. He has emphasized the need to address barriers to entry for international medical graduates and to invest in the health workforce.

Since taking office, the government has already hired over 2,100 additional nurses, 600 more doctors, and expanded the number of obstetricians and gynaecologists across the country. However, the current crisis in gynaecological oncology services highlights the need for more targeted investment and long-term planning.

As the debate over the future of gynaecological cancer care in New Zealand continues, the government faces mounting pressure to ensure that patients receive timely, high-quality care close to home.