This was highlighted by the former Permanent Secretary for Health and the current Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr James Fong who says excessive political interference continues to undermine long-term planning and the effective delivery of health services.
Dr Fong says according to the health sectoral impact assessment report synopsis submitted to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, one of the biggest challenges facing the health sector is the lack of consistent long-term planning, with plans repeatedly being disrupted by short-term needs or perceived political priorities.
Pointing to instances where ambulance services are relocated to different areas following political demands, only to be moved back after a few months, Dr Fong says this makes it difficult for senior health managers to implement proper plans and ensure resources are distributed according to the needs of each community.
He says efforts to restructure health facilities and ensure each facility performs its designated functions have also been undermined by the continued development of new health facilities without proper planning parameters.
Dr Fong stresses that health care planning must be protected from excessive political interference.
He says while restructuring the health sector's planning processes may bring some short-term challenges, it will ultimately help restore public trust by allowing people to navigate the health system and access services more efficiently.
He also highlights the need for greater decentralisation and empowering community-level health units to achieve their own goals.
