The provision of dermatology services in the South Island has reached a critical juncture, with no skin specialists currently practicing in public hospitals across the entire region. This development follows the resignation of the South Island’s last two locum dermatologists last month, leaving a significant void in specialized care for skin conditions.
Health NZ/Te Whatu Ora has ceased accepting dermatology outpatient referrals and appointments since the departure of these specialists, redirecting patients back to their primary care physicians. The health authority has acknowledged the issue and stated efforts are underway to secure locum cover while actively pursuing the recruitment of permanent dermatologists.
According to Dunedin GP Dan Pettigrew, while general practitioners can manage the majority of dermatology cases, severe conditions necessitate the expertise of specialists for accurate assessment and specialized treatments. “They need specialist assessment and specialist medications,” Pettigrew emphasized, underscoring the critical need for a dedicated dermatology service, which has now been depleted even further.
The impact of this shortage is acutely felt among patients suffering from conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and other rare skin ailments, which require ongoing specialized care. Notably, melanoma cases continue to receive separate specialist attention within the South Island.
Dr. Louise Reiche, President of the Dermatological Society, highlighted the profound impact of untreated skin conditions on individuals and families. “It means we have a lot of suffering out in the community,” Dr. Reiche stated, noting the ripple effects on mental health and overall well-being when conditions are left untreated.
Amidst these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope as Health NZ/Te Whatu Ora explores the establishment of multiple dermatology departments across New Zealand, including potential facilities in Christchurch. Dr. Reiche emphasized the need for a more sustainable model, moving away from sole practitioners in isolated DHB areas, which often leads to burnout and turnover.
The shortage of dermatologists in New Zealand has been a longstanding issue, underscored by previous workforce surveys urging urgent intervention. Despite these warnings, effective solutions have been slow to materialize, exacerbating the strain on dermatological services nationwide.
As stakeholders continue to grapple with these challenges, the immediate focus remains on bridging the gap in dermatological care for South Island residents, ensuring equitable access to specialized treatments and improving outcomes for patients with chronic skin conditions.
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