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Locum Costs Surge as NZ Seeks Permanent Solutions | Auckland News
Record-high spending on temporary doctors—now over $200 million for the third straight year—is straining New Zealand’s health system, prompting urgent action. Health New Zealand is pushing to hire more permanent specialists and slash locum budgets to $179 million next year, while also promoting the country as a top destination for medical professionals. But critics warn that relying on short-term staff undermines patient care and continuity. With global competition for doctors intensifying, officials are exploring alternatives like nurse practitioners and are under direct orders from the…
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