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Rotorua MP Steve Chadwick today clarified the facts surrounding the supply of junior doctors at Lakes District Health Board (DHB). 

"Recently there have been media reports about recruitment of junior doctors at Rotorua Hospital which have caused concern in the community and it is important that the facts of the situation are clarified," Steve Chadwick said. 

"I have sought an assurance from the Board that it has a planned approached and a strategy in place for filling these vacancies and that services will not be compromised. 

"I remain confident that the DHB is addressing the situation, and I am aware it has successfully met, or exceeded, the Minister of Health's DHB targets, including for elective services. 

"I have been reassured by the Board that it values the contribution that junior doctors make to Rotorua's public health. Over the last year it has undertaken a specific project to improve the coordination, training and recruitment of junior medical staff, including the assignment of a senior staff member to work directly with junior staff." 

Steve Chadwick also said that reports of growing numbers of managers were inaccurate. 

"Since 2001 the DHB has increased its junior doctors numbers by 42 per cent, compared with a drop in management staff of 4.2 per cent for the same period. 

"While the DHB are facing some pressures, reports that Rotorua has fallen short are inaccurate as the 2008/09 recruitment of junior doctors is still continuing. 

"I am confident that the Board is addressing the issues appropriately and taking proactive steps to ensure it maintains sustainable health services for the Rotorua public."

Steve Chadwick said she was also aware that industrial negotiations with junior doctors were continuing and she was hopeful that a settlement would be reached.

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