The IHC is seeking a lifeline from the Government as it grapples with the implications of a landmark employment court case which would bankrupt it if it were forced to pay $80 million in backpay and an extra $20 million a year in wages.
The time it is taking to make final a report on concerns about referrals to Dunedin Hospital colonoscopy services has drawn comment from Health Minister Tony Ryall and Otago District Health Board chairman Errol Millar.
Following a review sought by the Otago Daily Times, Minister of Health Tony Ryall has released some information on the estimated cost of the 12-month programme of the breast cancer drug Herceptin, but the actual cost remains unclear.
The Otago District Health Board expects to receive Southern Cancer Network's audit report on up to 32 referrals to Dunedin Hospital's colonoscopy service in a week's time.
When Tony Ryall celebrates his birthday on Thursday, he will also be marking the end of his first year as Minister of Health.
