Media Release

3 July 2008

RMO Workforce Commission

The Ministry will begin work immediately on establishing an independent commission to look at the way resident medical officers or junior doctors are employed.

Director-General of Health Stephen McKernan says the commission was first suggested by the DHBs in the current pay talks as a way to help resident medical officers and district health boards find a settlement.

"We need to find sustainable ways to train, employ and pay junior doctors in New Zealand and ensure we have a workforce that meets the changing needs of our health system now and in the future."

Mr McKernan says the Ministry will fund the Commission, provide secretariat support and consult with the resident medical officers union (the NZRDA), DHBs and other stakeholders.

"The aim is to look at the junior doctor workforce and provide independent and evidence-based recommendations on how hospitals employ and pay them."

"Consultation on the terms of reference will commence shortly and I expect to be able to announce the terms of reference for the Commission by the end of the month."

For further information, please contact Peter Abernethy, Communications Manager, 04-496-2008, 021-366-111