CAMPAIGN
Stop the privatisation of public healthcare
Eye health is where this is happening now.
The Government is making long-term moves to shift care into the private sector, with implications that go well beyond eye health.
New Zealanders deserve a strong, publicly funded health system that works for everyone.
What’s happening
Health NZ is seeking long-term, nationwide contracts with private providers to deliver eye health services.
This goes beyond short-term support to clear waiting lists. It signals a shift in how care is delivered.
Why this matters
When long-term funding shifts into private delivery, the public system loses capacity over time.
Workforce moves, training reduces, and services become harder to sustain. Once that shift happens, it’s difficult to reverse.
Not just us
Concerns about this approach are growing across the health sector.
Former Health Minister Hon Pete Hodgson says a line has been crossed, describing the move as an ideological decision rather than a practical one.
“Privatisation doesn’t happen all at once.”
-Louisa Wall
In the news
Otago Daily Times - Privatising our health system by stealth
Hon Pete Hodgson
RNZ – Govt outsourcing eye health services
Phil Pennington
Stuff - Bid to outsource eye care a turning point for privatisation of health service
Louisa Wall
Newsroom – Privatising public hospital eye care by stealth, not diagnosis
Ian Powell
What we’re calling for
Fund public health properly
So everyone gets care when they need it.
Honour Te Tiriti
Ensuring Māori lead on equity in the health system.
Keep healthcare public
So care stays for people, not profit.
TAKE ACTION