A new analysis of the May Budget by the Council of Trade Unions says it short-changed the health sector by $215 million.
Released on Saturday, the analysis, prepared jointly with the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, says annual funding is not keeping pace with population changes.
CTU economist Bill Rosenberg said the annual shortfall had been a trend since 2009-10, during which time total underfunding was $1.4 billion.
‘‘The effects on people’s health and access to health care are largely hidden but, on the limited information available, New Zealand ranks poorly against other comparable countries on access measures such as barriers to primary care, and waiting times for elective surgery, for first specialist appointments, and for treatment after diagnosis.’’
Dr Rosenberg said mental health had been hit particularly hard by underfunding.
In response, Health Minister Jonathan Coleman dismissed the union analysis, telling RNZ it was the work of critics.
The Government’s investment in health would reach a record $16.8 billion in the year ahead, making it the top funding priority, Dr Coleman said.
