Tony Ryall

Wellington, April 29 NZPA - Health Minister Tony Ryall has introduced a bill to Parliament which he says represents a major drive for better value for money.

The changes in the bill follow recommendations by the ministerial review group which reported earlier this year.

Mr Ryall said they would enable greater national and regional cooperation in the health sector and reduce duplication and bureaucracy.

The changes include:

* Structural changes to enhance quality improvement activity, including the establishment of the Health Quality and Safety Commission;

* Enabling the appointment of elected District Health Board (DHB) members to the boards of other DHBs;

* Amending the objectives and functions of DHBs to ensure they work together for the most effective and efficient delivery of health services;

* Amending regulation making powers relating to arbitration and mediation so they have wider application; and

* Amendments which support the provision of shared administrative, support and procurement services across the public health system.