Senior Doctors Launch 48-Hour Strike Amid Pay Dispute

More than 6,000 senior hospital doctors and dentists commenced a 48-hour strike just after midnight on July 31, 2023, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing pay dispute with Health NZ. This action follows a previous strike in May, which had resulted in an estimated 13,000 patients being affected. The strike reflects deepening tensions over working conditions and compensation in New Zealand’s health sector.

Health Minister Simeon Brown has adopted a confrontational stance, openly criticizing the doctors for their strike decision. He described it as a choice made by “some of the most well-paid public servants” to abandon their patients and cancel care. Brown expressed disappointment over the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists (ASMS) refusal to accept binding arbitration.

Patients Voice Concerns Over Health Services

Patients like Charyl Robinson, a cancer patient in Wellington, have expressed solidarity with healthcare workers. Robinson, whose surgery dates have been repeatedly canceled, emphasized that health workers deserve recognition and better treatment. She stated, “I’m worried constantly that I could lose one of the incredible team of specialists looking after me,” highlighting her fear that doctors may leave for better conditions elsewhere.

Robinson, who co-founded the advocacy group Vape Free Kids, criticized the government’s financial priorities, noting that funds allocated for tax breaks to tobacco companies could be redirected to support healthcare. “Plenty of frivolous, downright disingenuous spends could be walked back to make some room for health workers’ needs,” she added.

Another patient, who requested anonymity, shared his experience after spending four days in North Shore Hospital. He pointed out that the reality on the ground contradicts the minister’s assertions. “The only reason the wheels haven’t fallen off is because the government has taken advantage of the goodwill of all the medical professionals,” he said. He likened the hospital staff’s effort to that of professional athletes, working tirelessly under extreme pressure.

Health NZ Seeks Resolution Through Employment Relations Authority

In response to the ongoing strike, Health NZ has taken the unprecedented step of appealing to the Employment Relations Authority to make a final decision on the terms and conditions of employment, citing that all bargaining options have been exhausted. Dr. Richard Sullivan, the national clinical director, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations after extensive discussions, mediation, and offers presented to the ASMS.

“We have been in bargaining with ASMS for over a year and believe all bargaining options have been exhausted,” Dr. Sullivan stated. He emphasized that while hospitals will remain open, many clinics will be closed, resulting in significant disruptions to patient care. The strike is anticipated to affect over 1,800 elective procedures, more than 3,600 first specialist appointments, and around 7,000 follow-up appointments, along with over 800 outpatient procedures.

Emergency care will continue to be available, and patients currently in hospitals will receive ongoing treatment. Health NZ has confirmed an agreement with the ASMS to provide essential life-preserving services during the strike, which is scheduled to conclude at 11:59 PM on August 2, 2023.

The ASMS maintains that its members have not received an offer that does not represent a pay cut in real terms, particularly during a time when workforce shortages are critical. Executive Director Sarah Dalton stated that Health NZ has “failed to turn up with any meaningful improvement on its offer,” reiterating the need for competitive pay to attract and retain medical professionals in New Zealand.

This strike highlights the increasing pressure facing healthcare workers and the urgent need for a resolution that addresses both their concerns and the ongoing challenges within the healthcare system.