New Zealand First undertook to remove the profit focus from the health system. We promised to introduce new initiatives in the area of child health, and to reduce hospital waiting lists. We delivered on these promises.
Major challenges remain.
New Zealand now ranks between 17th and 19th of the 24 OECD countries in the key indicators of life expectancy and infant mortality. We were once in the first five. New Zealand First wants a properly funded and resourced public health service. Getting the greatest amount of health and disability support from our health spending is critical. Providing people with certainty about their healthcare and ensuring timely access to quality services is essential.