Decision could ‘hinder’ students’ learning experiences

Dunedin's two tertiary institutions have come out swinging against the government’s plans to either downscale or ditch the new hospital project.

The joint statement from Otago Polytechnic and the University of Otago comes after Health Minister Dr Shane Reti and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop’s announcement this week, which puts the new Dunedin hospital project in doubt.

Both institutions were particularly concerned about the impact not having a leading hospital would have on the future of training doctors and nurses.

Otago Polytechnic Te Pūkenga  executive director Dr Megan Pōtiki said the decision could put Dunedin’s reputation as a destination for health education excellence in jeopardy.

‘‘Otago Polytechnic has a strong and productive relationship with Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) and relies on the hospital to provide critical clinical training and support for its health students.

‘‘This facility is essential in cultivating New Zealand’s next generation of healthcare professionals.

‘‘Reductions in Dunedin’s hospital services would significantly limit the availability of clinical placements for our students, especially in highly sought-after nursing and midwifery programmes. This would hinder their hands-on learning experience, potentially impacting their preparedness for the workforce.’’

Meanwhile, Otago University vice-chancellor Grant Robertson reiterated Dunedin hospital was a teaching hospital.

‘‘This role is of enormous national importance, particularly as not enough doctors, nurses and many other health professionals are presently being trained to keep up with New Zealand’s growing and changing healthcare needs.’’

Acting head of the college of health at Otago Polytechnic Dr Hayden Croft said any decrease in hospital services would likely result in fewer learning opportunities for students.

‘‘Students may be forced to seek qualifications outside the region, or even the country, leading to a talent shortage in our local healthcare and potentially discouraging students from enrolling in our health sciences programmes.’’

Mr Robertson said the relationship between HNZ the staff at the hospital and the University of Otago was critical in training future health professionals.

‘‘A robust public hospital system is essential not only for the health of our community but also for providing our students with the hands-on experience necessary to excel in their professions.

‘‘We will continue to work closely with Health New Zealand to identify how to support the teaching, learning and training requirements of both organisations in order to strengthen health outcomes for New Zealanders.’’