Health NZ takes stalled pay talks with union to ERA

Massive disruption incoming

Health Minister Simeon Brown slammed on Thursday the ASMS for its decision to strike, citing massive disruption in the country’s health care system.

Brown said senior doctors in New Zealand already receive an average total remuneration of $343,500, including overtime and allowances.

They also get benefits such as six weeks of annual leave, two weeks of paid training leave annually, a fully paid three-month sabbatical every six years, as well as reimbursement for licences, college memberships, and insurance.

“Senior doctors are among the most well-remunerated public servants, with many also working in private practice,” Brown said in a statement.

“The ASMS union is putting politics ahead of patients, while Health New Zealand continues to engage in good faith.”