16 Sep 2021

Beyond lockdowns: how will the health system cope?

From Nine To Noon, 9:08 am on 16 September 2021

What needs to be done to shore-up our hospitals if, and when, we open up our borders and stop having lockdowns? The government has indicated a change of direction in how we respond to Covid-19 - moving from lockdowns to relying on the health system. In such a scenario, experts are warning hospitals will see a higher number of Covid patients.

Lynn speaks with Covid-modeller Professor Shaun Hendy about the numbers our health system should be anticipating. She also speaks with specialist emergency physician and president of the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine Dr John Bonning and Kate Weston, the acting nursing and professional services manager for the New Zealand Nurses Organisation.

Medical equipment in an ICU ward.

Photo: 123rf