WELLINGTON – New Zealand announced Wednesday it will consolidate its fragmented healthcare system into a national service similar to the one revered by many in Britain.
New Zealand's government-run system is currently divided into 20 district health boards, each with their own budget. Some describe the system as a “postcode lottery” of different treatment depending on where people live.
Health Minister Andrew Little said that over three years, the district boards will be replaced by a single new body called Health New Zealand.
He promised an increased focus on public health and treating people early so they don’t end up in hospitals. He said the coronavirus pandemic had forced the system into a rare and welcomed collaboration but it wasn't