New Zealand to modernise health workforce regulation for faster care

Key measures include quicker recognition of overseas qualifications.

New Zealand will introduce changes to health workforce regulation aimed at accelerating patient access to care, said Health Minister Simeon Brown.

The measures include faster recognition of overseas qualifications and greater accountability for regulators.

“We’ll get more health professionals into the workforce sooner, reduce wait times, and improve access to care across the country,” Brown said.

The reforms will align the country’s approach with Australia, where Health Ministers direct regulators to consider workforce needs.

Under the framework, Ministers will be given tools to set expectations for supporting new models of care and streamlining registration processes.

“This is about making sure the system is joined up, responsive, and working for patients,” he added.