Wairoa doctor comes and goes

A Government scheme to recruit overseas doctors to fill Wairoa's GP shortage has been dealt an early blow by the resignation of Dr Komal Patel after only two weeks in the job.

Dr Patel's appointment, with others in Pahiatua and Motueka, was the first under the New Zealand Rural General Practice scheme, designed to make long-term and permanent placements in areas of greatest need.

After only two weeks on the staff at the Wairoa Medical Centre, Dr Patel has decided to return to Britain. Her departure leaves the centre with just two doctors.

Dr Patel said: "I've got no comment to make other than that I've had a lovely time here and to say thanks to everyone here who has helped me out."