Wairarapa general surgeon and Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) Surgical Advisor Sarah Rennie knows this first-hand. It took seven months for her to obtain remote access to the electronic medical record used in Palmerston North Hospital while working as a locum. Even then, she could not sign off histology results or generate electronic letters to patients and their GPs.
"Clinicians need to be able to access the information they need and communicate easily with other health professionals," says Associate Professor Rennie.
"When systems don't connect, we end up working around technology rather than having it support the care we provide."
Her experience highlights a wider challenge for Aotearoa New Zealand's health system. Having the right workforce in the right places is critical, but it is only part of the equation. Surgeons also need modern, connected systems and the physical capacity to treat patients.
RACS is calling on the next government to plan and accelerate investment in digital and data systems that allow patient information to move securely and seamlessly between health services. Better connected systems can support continuity of care, improve communication between clinicians and reduce unnecessary administrative barriers.
Investment in physical infrastructure is equally important. Operating theatres, procedural suites and inpatient beds must be available to meet demand for both planned and acute surgery. Health infrastructure also needs to be sustainable and resilient to future challenges.
RACS says these investments must be considered together as part of long-term planning for a public health system equipped to meet current and future demand for surgery.
The call forms part of RACS' 2026 election manifesto, which also prioritises growing and retaining Aotearoa New Zealand's surgical workforce and improving equitable access to surgery based on need.
Read the RACS election manifesto.
