Health New Zealand spent $61M on contractors in 2024, up from $27M, to address staff shortages.

Health New Zealand (HNZ) significantly increased spending on contractors and consultants to $61 million in the financial year ending June 2024, up from $27 million the previous year. This rise, despite government goals to reduce such spending, is due to addressing clinical staff shortages. Health Minister Shane Reti defended the use of contractors as necessary to maintain services, while opposition criticizes the lack of cost control. HNZ faces a substantial deficit and is also focusing on recruiting permanent staff.

November 17, 2024
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