New Zealand action to address major inequities in the distribution and ultilisation of primary health care services

Abstract

Evidence from New Zealand studies is presented of gross inequities in the distribution and utilisation of primary care expenditure, especially pharmaceutical and pathology seroices, commonly called referred seroices. This inequity exists between districts, within districts and especially within primary health organisations (PHOs). There is clear evidence that disadvantaged populations receive, on a per capita basis, far less than their fair share of this expenditure. Redistribution would appear to offer a significant prospect for improving health outcomes for disadvantaged New Zealanders. Government, through the New Zealand and Primary Health Care Strategy, and supported by general practitioner (GP) leadership, is now taking major steps to address inequities. Tbis will be through PHOs, now serving nearly 90% of the population as enrolled with their GPs. PHOs will be equitably funded for their enrolled populations, including/or referred services. However, finding a way of redistributing resources from high spending practices, PHOs and districts will be the major challenge facing the implementation of the Primary Health Care Strategy.