New Zealand faces bed closures

Abstract

Rural hospitals in New Zealand are threatened with closure under new government proposals to cut the number of hospital beds. New Zealand, which is the same size as Britain but has a population of only 3.4 million people, has numerous small rural hospitals. Some have permanent specialists and resident staff; others are run by general practitioners and visiting specialists. Prime Minister Jim Bolger, said last week: “Every medical professional knows we have too many hospital beds and that change was and still is necessary. Most people want the best health care for themselves and their families, and are prepared to travel to get it.” …