The Health Minister says he has told district health board (DHBs) chiefs they must ensure they listen to the views of clinicians.
Jonathan Coleman. Photo: RNZ
Jonathan Coleman made the comment in his first address to the annual conference of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, in Wellington yesterday.
Dr Coleman announced last week that the Crown-owned company Health Benefits Limited, or HBL would be wound down.
He also said its business cases- including joint procurement of food and catering by public hospitals - would still be implemented.
Dr Coleman was asked at the conference whether individual DHBs would now get more choice in such plans.
He said there would be flexibility, but savings must be made.
"I think there's a bit more flexibility around things like food and linen, btu we've really got to make those procurement savings."
