Southern Cross Healthcare has announced Roger Cronin as its new chief operating officer for the organisation’s 10 wholly owned hospitals.
The role, recently established within the organisation, focuses on overseeing the operational performance of these facilities while acting as a strategic link between the hospitals and Southern Cross Healthcare’s national support office.
Cronin (pictured) shared his enthusiasm for joining Southern Cross Healthcare, saying the position allows him to contribute to its mission of enhancing healthcare delivery in New Zealand.
“I’m really excited to have joined Southern Cross Healthcare and support the business to deliver on its purpose to advance the provision of quality healthcare in New Zealand,” he said. “This is a highly regarded healthcare organisation that offers excellent care and clinical outcomes.”
Hailing from Queensland, Cronin brings a diverse background in healthcare leadership. His career spans clinical and executive roles across Australia, the UK, and the Middle East.
He most recently served for 15 years as the CEO of PresMed Australia, a private healthcare provider specialising in surgical day-stay procedures for ophthalmology and ENT patients.
Cronin’s early career included leadership roles in major public hospitals and work with the New South Wales Ministry of Health, giving him significant experience in clinical governance and complex healthcare operations.
He holds a bachelor of health science in nursing from Charles Sturt University and is pursuing an MBA to further strengthen his leadership capabilities.
The appointment coincides with increasing public concerns about access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, as revealed in the 2024 Southern Cross Healthy Futures report.
The report revealed that 84% of respondents expressed concern about the affordability and availability of healthcare, up from 78% in 2022.
The annual study, conducted with research partner Kantar, surveyed over 7,000 people across the country. It highlighted widespread apprehension about rising costs and longer wait times, along with growing pressure on the healthcare system.
Southern Cross Health Society CEO Nick Astwick noted that two-thirds of New Zealanders believe their physical and mental health has been affected in the long term by COVID-19, creating significant challenges for a healthcare sector that is already under strain.
Southern Cross members’ healthcare claims have also risen, with daily claims now averaging $6 million compared to $5.2 million in the previous year.
The survey respondents identified financial constraints, provider shortages, and wait times as key reasons for delays in seeking medical treatment. Many also cited these factors as barriers that prevented them from accessing necessary care altogether.
Telehealth platforms, including Southern Cross’s CareHQ service, are emerging as potential solutions to improve healthcare access.
Astwick noted that these services could alleviate pressure on traditional healthcare providers while offering new avenues for patients.
