Health sector resignations and review

The story so far

Her departure followed the resignations of Health NZ chief executive Margie Apa and Director of Public Health Nicholas Jones, making three senior health officials to leave.^{17, 18 Feb 2025} The departures came as the health system dealt with budget issues, staff shortages and increasing waiting times.^{18 Feb 2025} Labour blamed the government's failure to meet health targets for the wave of top-level resignations.^{17 Feb 2025}

What's next

The unit will carry out a rapid four-month review to check that the health system meets specific targets.^{19 Feb 2025}

Key moments

1. 14 Feb 2025Sarfati announces resignation as director-general of health, less than halfway through term
2. 17 Feb 2025Labour blames failing health targets for wave of top resignations
3. 18 Feb 2025Three high-level health officials resign amid budget, staffing and waiting-time pressures
4. 19 Feb 2025Health Assurance Unit set up to scrutinise Te Whatu Ora, with four-month review

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