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June 2025 Edition
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Target: national President of Rural Women new Zealand Sandra Matthews says geographical equity in healthcare coverage must remain the overall goal.
Rural health boost welcomed but need remains high Rural Women New Zealand has welcomed the Government’s announcement of new and improved urgent and after-hours healthcare for rural communities but says this must be the start of a commitment to improve rural access to health services.
] by Kent Caddick p34
Sandra Matthews, National President of Rural Women New Zealand, said the investment recognises some of the current issues faced by rural communities, but a sustained effort is needed to address the challenges rural people face in accessing their healthcare needs.
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“Rural communities should not be disadvantaged in our health system,” Matthews said. “These new services, including on-call clinicians, access to basic diagnostics, and timely access to medicines, are a promising step. “We welcome the inclusion of trials that will be developed in partnership with rural
providers, who know best how to respond to the needs of rural communities. “However, real equity will only be achieved when every rural New Zealander can access quality healthcare, no matter their location.” Matthews said Rural Women New Zealand has long called for universal access to highquality primary and urgent care in rural communities. TO PAGE 2
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