We have moved the focus from the back office to the frontline. Since 2008 more than 1300 doctors and 3000 nurses have entered our health workforce.
In real numbers, this means 9326 Bay of Plenty patients received elective surgery, compared to 6940 in 2008. Over the last six years, an extra 10,751 Bay of Plenty residents have benefited from elective surgery, compared to the level of surgeries completed under the previous Government.
While called 'electives', these are operations like hip and knee replacements, which can significantly improve quality of life and restore freedom and independence to the patient.
Waiting times for radiation or chemotherapy treatment have decreased dramatically and 94 per cent of emergency department patients are now seen within six hours, the highest result since records began.
We are continuing to work hard to improve our health services and the level of care New Zealanders receive.