The frustration of navigating healthcare wait times is a familiar one for many, but for some Recent Zealanders facing neurological conditions, the delays can be particularly acute. A recent case highlights a stark disparity: a Southland woman experienced a same-day consultation with a neurologist while on holiday in France, only to be told she faced a four-month wait to see a specialist upon her return home. This experience underscores a growing concern about access to neurological care in New Zealand, a concern backed by new research indicating a significant shortage of specialists.
The issue isn’t simply about inconvenience; it’s about timely diagnosis and treatment for potentially debilitating conditions. Neurological disorders, including stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease, require prompt medical attention. Delays can worsen outcomes and diminish quality of life. The woman’s story, as reported by RNZ, illustrates the potential consequences of these delays, as her seizures continued and worsened while awaiting a local appointment.
Growing Demand, Limited Capacity
A new study from the University of Otago in Wellington confirms the strain on New Zealand’s neurology services. Published in the British medical journal BMJ Neurology Open, the research reveals that the country is struggling to keep pace with the increasing demand for neurological care. The study found that in 2024, New Zealand had 83 neurologists working across public and private sectors, equivalent to 67.3 full-time positions, including 8.3 dedicated to pediatric neurology. This translates to one neurologist per 74,000 people – a figure significantly lower than Australia’s ratio of one per 41,000.
Professor Anna Ranta, who led the study, noted that to achieve best practice management, one neurologist per 28,000 people would be required. “If current training, recruitment, retention and practice patterns persist, projections indicate there will be a gradual worsening in the New Zealand neurology workforce over time,” she stated. The research suggests that currently, only about one in five patients with chronic neurological disease are regularly reviewed by a neurologist.
Experiences Beyond One Case
The Southland woman’s experience isn’t isolated. David Ross, a resident of Huntly, shared his own frustration with wait times. After being referred to a neurologist in late January, he received a letter apologizing for the seven-week delay. He considered pursuing a private appointment, which would cost nearly $600, but ultimately decided to remain on the public waitlist, fortunate that his condition didn’t cause immediate pain. “It doesn’t give you a lot of confidence in the overall system,” he said.
These accounts highlight the challenges faced by New Zealanders seeking neurological care. The delays can lead to increased anxiety, uncertainty, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. The financial burden of seeking private care too creates inequities in access, favoring those who can afford to pay.
Te Whatu Ora Responds
Dr. David Gow, a regional chief medical officer at Te Whatu Ora, acknowledged the challenges and emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving access to healthcare and strengthening the workforce. “We know that, as part of this, we need to grow our healthcare workforce, and this is not exclusive to neurology,” he stated. He added that health targets focused on reducing wait times apply to all specialties, including neurology, and that research like the University of Otago study is valuable for workforce planning.
However, concrete steps to address the shortage remain a critical need. Increasing training opportunities for neurologists, attracting specialists from overseas, and optimizing the apply of existing resources are all potential strategies. The long wait times for appointments, like the four-month delay experienced by the Southland woman and the projected January 2026 appointment, underscore the urgency of the situation.
The disparity in access to neurological care, as illustrated by the woman’s experience in France, serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing New Zealand’s healthcare system. Addressing this shortage is crucial to ensuring equitable and timely care for all New Zealanders living with neurological conditions.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The University of Otago study provides ongoing data that will inform future workforce planning. Te Whatu Ora is expected to release updated workforce projections in late 2026. If you have concerns about neurological wait times, please discuss them with your general practitioner.
What are your experiences with accessing specialist care in New Zealand? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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