As we approach the upcoming election, it is becoming more evident that some politicians are not above stretching the truth to make a point. Engaging in such actions undermines the efforts of those working towards a common goal and can have serious repercussions, particularly in the realm of public health.
Recently, the NZ Herald reported that the National Party was criticized for misusing numbers to exaggerate the scale of the exodus of nurses from the country’s health sector. National’s health spokesman Shane Reti and leader Christopher Luxon claimed that almost 19,000 nurses had left the public health system since Labour came to power in 2017.
However, Health Minister Ayesha Verrall accused Reti of using the numbers in a misleading manner. She pointed out that the data he was referring to included nurses who had moved from one nursing job to another, such as moving from a hospital to work in aged residential care or for a GP. Many had not left the health system, but were simply in a different part of it. In fact, the total number of nurses employed by Te Whatu Ora had increased between March 2017 and December 2022 by 4108 full-time equivalent nurses – a 19% increase.
Despite being informed of this by Verrall, Reti and Luxon chose to use the number of 19,000 nurses who had left the health system in their press release. This number had not taken into account those who had been transferred or re-employed. It is unclear how many nurses had left the public sector completely.
This case is a clear example of leaders not being truthful for political reasons. It is concerning to see that some political leaders are willing to manipulate data to push their agenda and to get approval from the public. In addition to misusing data, spreading inaccurate information can also have a negative impact on public trust in the health system.
It is important that we hold our leaders accountable for their statements and ensure that they are based on facts. Politicians must be transparent about the data they use and be honest about the limitations of their claims. We need leaders who are willing to have honest and open discussions about the challenges we face, rather than trying to score political points.
In this particular case – nursing shortage in New Zealand, it is clear that there is a need for action to improve retention rates and attract more nurses from overseas. However, this must be based on accurate data and a clear understanding of the situation. We cannot afford to let political posturing get in the way of finding real solutions to the challenges facing our health system.
This principle applies to all policies that will be disclosed in the months ahead of the election. Every country requires leaders who are truthful and act in the best interest of their people. Like many other countries, New Zealand is grappling with the cost of living, inflation, housing affordability, and other issues. Therefore, the people need trustworthy leaders who can guide the country without seeking personal gains. We need leaders who are honest and transparent about the data they use and who are willing to collaborate to find effective solutions to the challenges we face.