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The New Zealand Labour Party
Labour is committed to a public health system that people can trust, one that is there for them regardless of their ability to pay. We will build upon the positive changes to our health system over this decade to offer the best possible service for all New Zealanders.
General practitioners (GPs) and Primary Health Organisations
We will keep primary healthcare subsidies universal, so that everyone is able to get cheaper doctors visits and cheaper prescription medicines. A million Kiwis now pay no more than $16 to see a GP and the cost of most prescription medicines has been cut to no more than $3. Young families are saving around $550 each year and older couples are saving around $440. We are committed to addressing workforce issues in primary healthcare so that every kiwi has access to quality public healthcare when they need it.
Hospital and District Health Boards
We will continue to invest in increasing surgery that improves people's quality of life. More New Zealanders now receive elective operations than ever before--over 300 every day--and we're committed to lifting that still further.
We will continue to maintain and improve hospital buildings and campuses so they are better able to cope with high demand in the public health system. Five major hospital redevelopments have now been approved and are underway, on top of eight major refurbishments and seven new hospitals built since 1999.
We are committed to...