Funding for more local GPs to remove suspected skin cancer
The New Zealand government has announced a $23 million investment to upskill local GPs in skin cancer detection and removal. This initiative aims to reduce hospital wait times and provide more accessible care for the country's high rates of melanoma.
Why it matters
Expanding primary care capabilities for cancer treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes and alleviate pressure on hospital systems.
The government has announced funding for more local GP clinics to be able to remove suspected skin cancer.
Health Minister Simeon Brown said it's the first stage of a $23 million investment in community healthcare.
He said in some parts of the country, the only option to check and remove suspicious skin spots and moles is a long hospital wait or paying to go private.
"This first stage will build on the skin cancer services that already work well across the country, creating a nationally consistent approach to how this care is delivered."
The funding was set to go towards upskilling more GPs to offer skin cancer services, including training in dermoscopy, which uses a specialised magnifier to examine spots closely, and skin excision.
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