A prominent New Zealand doctor says the Government's move to make GP visits cheaper is underwhelming, and won't make much difference for people struggling to access healthcare.
From this weekend, around 540,000 Community Service Card holders will have $20 to $30 slashed off their appointment prices.
But Northland GP Lance O'Sullivan says it's not a fix for the health professional shortage.
"Putting more money into the clinics when there's not enough doctors and nurses to see them in the first place is not going to address the problems," he told Newshub.
The policy also extends free GP visits to under 14-year-olds, an additional 56,000 people.
"In a country like New Zealand, cost should not put people off going to see the doctor when they're sick," said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Dr O'Sullivan says doctors and lawmakers need to talk with the community to find out what really needs to be done.
"You know how often that happens in health? Never. Who they ask is a bunch of consultants and a bunch of ministry officials who don't know what it's like to not access health care."
Health Minister David Clark said making it cheaper to visit the doctor will increase access to healthcare in regions struggling with poverty - like Dr O'Sullivan's Northland.
"Not only will cheaper doctors' visits mean more people will be able to afford to get the care they need, that will mean many health issues can be identified and treated early before they become major problems requiring hospital treatment."
Dr O'Sullivan also wants more money spent on innovation, to save money in the long-term.
"Small amount of money invested in 100 pilots, you figure out the top 10, then you go down to the next two, the two most likely to succeed. It's just what we need - not reviewing and rehashing old models."
Newshub.
