The availability of quality healthcare has emerged as a significant concern for New Zealanders this year, according to the latest findings from the Southern Cross Healthy Futures report.
The report, developed in partnership with Kantar, has been tracking the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders since 2019, drawing on feedback from over 7,000 individuals across the country.
The 2024 survey revealed a marked increase in worry over healthcare access, with 84% of respondents expressing concern about the availability of affordable, high-quality care – a 6% rise compared to 2022.
Nick Astwick, CEO of Southern Cross Health Society, remarked on the heightened focus on health issues among New Zealanders, noting that two-thirds of the respondents believe their physical and mental health has been impacted long-term by COVID-19.
“Against this backdrop, there’s growing pressure on our healthcare system to manage increasing demand and costs while continuing to maintain a high standard of care for all New Zealanders,” he said.
Southern Cross has seen an increase in claims from its members, with daily claim values now averaging NZ$6 million, up from NZ$5.2 million the previous year.
In addition to financial barriers, the report highlighted other obstacles New Zealanders face in accessing medical care. Long wait times and a shortage of healthcare professionals were frequently cited as reasons why some delayed or avoided treatment altogether.
Telehealth services, such as online GP consultations through platforms like CareHQ, have gained traction as a solution to these challenges.
Astwick suggested that these services could help ease the burden on the healthcare system by providing more accessible care options.
“These alternative care models have shown a lot of promise to improve New Zealanders’ access to quality healthcare, and to complement and reduce pressure on the primary healthcare sector,” he said.
The report also pointed to continuing concerns over the cost of living, which remains the top issue for 91% of New Zealanders, continuing a trend observed in the 2022 survey.
Dr Stephen Child, chief medical officer for Southern Cross Health Society, emphasised the impact of ongoing financial pressures on New Zealanders’ health and wellbeing.
“Financial insecurities have impacted New Zealander’s health and wellbeing in many ways. More people lost sleep in 2024 than in previous years,” he said.
Job security and work-life balance are also areas of growing concern, with fewer than half of the survey participants describing their work-life balance in positive terms. High workloads and economic pressures were the primary reasons for dissatisfaction.
Access to essential needs, such as affordable housing and nutritious food, remains a challenge, especially for younger demographics.
The findings align with nib New Zealand’s recent survey, which showed that the cost-of-living crisis has driven the New Zealand workforce’s mental health struggles.
However, Child noted that many New Zealanders are taking proactive steps to manage their mental health, including outdoor activities and maintaining relationships.
“They’re doing this by keeping their brains stimulated, spending time outdoors and nurturing relationships,” he said.
Child highlighted the importance of ensuring all New Zealanders have access to the healthcare and wellbeing support they need, regardless of their stage in life or health status.
The Southern Cross Healthy Futures Report 2024 offers a comprehensive look at changing health and societal concerns, with increased anxiety over healthcare access, economic issues, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Other notable findings included a shift in focus away from COVID-19 and towards concerns about violence, climate change, and the rise of vaping. Additionally, the report noted changes in alcohol consumption habits, with more individuals reducing their intake to improve health and wellbeing.
Technology’s role in health remains complex, with growing concerns about social media, particularly among parents. Nonetheless, technology continues to play a positive role in helping New Zealanders stay connected and manage their health.
