New Zealand’s beleaguered health system is always under scrutiny and, despite plenty of talking and promises by politicians, there appears no immediate solution in sight.
Concerns are regularly raised throughout the country about staff shortages – both doctors and nurses – and the burnout among those staff left to carry the load. Patients voice concerns about a lack of service and, at times, the lengthy delays in getting critical treatment.
Health was a political football leading up to last year’s general election and the coalition government has moved to try to address the problems. Te Whatu Ora’s board was fired and new commissioner, Lester Levy, appointed to sort out the issues, including health overspending.
Now it is the veterinary industry – our healthcare system for animals – in the spotlight after a report highlighted that vital support is needed to retain and attract staff.
Pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim’s research shows fewer than half of veterinarians intend to stay in the profession until retirement.
The report, Taking animal health forward, said that from more than 600 veterinary professionals surveyed across New Zealand, only 40% of vets and 26% of vet nurses expected to remain in the profession until retirement.
“Burnout and mental health pressures are driving many out of the field – 43% of clinic decision-makers report difficulties in hiring skilled staff,” the report says.
Staff shortages, a lack of investment in training, lower wages than other sectors and a misconception of the value of veterinary services are other issues the sector faces, the study says.
A shortage of vets has been an ongoing problem and it is not just confined to this country.
Australia is in a similar position and in the United States a lack of veterinarians has contributed to mental health issues among veterinary staff. There are warnings the shortage could leave the country at risk in terms of food safety and public health.
That situation is mirrored in New Zealand. Some veterinary practices have had to close, or merge, because of a lack of staff, and others are refusing to take on new clients because they don’t have the resources to cater for them.
Like most things relating to healthcare, funding is at the root of the problem. Massey University’s head Professor Jon Huxley, head of Tāwharau Ora, the School of Veterinary Science, warned more money is needed to address the shortage. About 300 domestic applications are received each year to train as vets, but government funding restrictions mean just 125 students can be accepted.
One solution being touted is to allow allied veterinary professionals – which include veterinary nurses, technicians, and technologists – to take on more clinical work, such as routine procedures, which would free up vets for other tasks. It is much the same principle as a practice nurse at health clinics taking over some roles that were previously the domain of doctors.
It is clear something needs to be done quickly to ensure veterinary staff feel inspired and valued. As the report says: “The strength of the domestic economy depends largely on the health and welfare of our production animal population.”
