Psychiatrists express disappointment as the National-led Government fails to fulfill its pre-election commitment to allocate funding in Budget 2024 for the training of additional mental health specialists.
Prior to assuming office, the National Party pledged to allocate funds for 13 additional psychiatry registrar positions.
Dr. Hiran Thabrew, New Zealand chair of the Royal Australia New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, voices concern over the delay in funding allocation, stating that members are questioning the timeline and method for funding these positions.
Despite acknowledging the growing workforce vacancies and escalating rates of mental distress across New Zealand, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey’s previous statements have not translated into action in the Coalition government’s initial budget.
Dr. Thabrew highlights the detrimental impact of delayed or absent mental health care, emphasizing the economic short-sightedness of such decisions. He emphasizes that neglecting mental health care leads to worsening conditions, longer recovery times, and ultimately higher costs.
Responding to criticisms, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey reaffirms the government’s commitment to expanding the mental health and addiction workforce, particularly focusing on psychiatrists and psychologists. He mentions the ongoing development of a Mental Health and Addiction workforce plan by Health New Zealand, promising to provide more details in the future.
While Budget 2024 includes funding for various mental health initiatives, such as the national Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund and increased medical school funding cap, the absence of specific funding for additional psychiatry registrar positions is noted as a setback in addressing the pressing mental health needs of the population.
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