Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

Labour will review the current New Zealand Superannuation portability arrangements
to identify any further policy changes that might be made to ensure people from
countries with arrangements similar to KiwiSaver are treated fairly.
Health care
Labour has a passionate belief in universal access to quality health care, while meeting the
specific needs of vulnerable populations. We are committed to funding the sector so it can
manage changing demographics and health status of New Zealanders.
Labour will develop an Integrated Health of the Older Person Service Delivery Model. This
would include input from local authorities, the NGO sector, district health boards, private
providers and unions. This would include consideration of models such as the Eden
Alternative and Abbeyfield.
We will develop a continuum of care model that puts the older person at the centre of an
individualised plan starting from ageing in place at home to hospital, respite and palliative
care. This model would include the assessment of health and support needs and take into
account social isolation, loneliness and elder abuse.
The inclusion of regional and local authorities would ensure that public transport
requirements, housing and access to health services occur.
This new model will include how the contracts will be provided and costed.
Labour will review the Implementation of the Health of Older Persons Strategy, 2002,
and develop an Aged Care Strategy.
Labour will review the process of engagement ensuring real consultation with older
persons in health planning through a strengthened Community Public Health
Advisory Committee of district health boards.
Ensuring access to the appropriate level of acute care remains a challenge for the health
sector. DHBs struggle to ensure that hospital emergency department services are available
in a timely manner for those who require hospital level care.
Research undertaken by the Auditor-General shows that access to surgery is often a product
of where you live rather than your needs. So-called “post code” access to elective services
is not acceptable for New Zealanders.
Labour will ensure a coordinated hospital and specialist care system with consistent
access criteria, quality and timeliness across New Zealand.
Labour will develop a model of care for acute services that encompasses the needs
of patients, primary care and hospital emergency departments.
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