Whanganui’s mayor and a district councillor are fighting back against Health NZ Te Whatu Ora’s proposal to remove the chief medical officer role at Whanganui Hospital. The proposal to reduce the number of chief medical officers, from 18 to 14 nationwide , includes Whanganui’s chief medical officer role being merged with neighbouring regions. Health NZ chief clinical officer Dr Richard Sullivan said it was “just a proposal at this stage”.
The proposed changes were not aimed at reducing fulltime equivalent staff numbers overall and included new clinical leadership roles in midwifery and mental health and addiction. The Chronicle understands the consultation is expected to take a few months. The proposal has sparked concern for Whanganui District Council elected members about what cuts might come next at Whanganui Hospital.
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