A bill that will reform the health system has been introduced to Parliament this afternoon.
Minister of Health Andrew Little says for too long the kind of healthcare someone receives has depended on where they live. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The Pae Ora Healthy Futures Bill replaces the 20 District Health Boards with a new national health service, Health New Zealand.
The bill also establishes an independent Māori Health Authority that will work in partnership with the service.
The legislation is expected to be passed next year, and come into effect on 1 July.
Minister of Health Andrew Little says for too long the kind of healthcare someone receives has depended on where they live.
"We need a system that works for everyone, and that is what we are building."
Associate Health Minister (Māori Health) Peeni Henare said the changes will transform Māori health.
"These changes recognise the role of Iwi-Māori Partnership Boards and that Māori should be able to exercise tino rangatiratanga and mana motuhake when it comes to planning and decision-making for health services at a local level," he said.
The bill will be up for consultation at the Select Committee stage once the bill has its first reading.