Auckland University of Technology has launched a new pathway for paramedicine students created in collaboration with Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, which is set to enable newly graduated students to move straight into studying to become an anaesthetic technician.
The pathway is to provide an additional pipeline into the profession, with the interim national chief of allied health for Health NZ Sue Waters stating that it reflects a priority in the health workforce plan to drive locally-led innovation, whilst offering additional flexibility and capacity for the health workforce.
“It’s health and education working in partnership, and hopefully the first of many future dual qualification/dual registration programmes,” she said.
Megan Richardson, programme leader for perioperative practice at the university, said that the innovative pathway “opens up a new opportunity for paramedics to build on their degree, while training more people for these crucial roles.”
She added: “Giving these dedicated individuals the chance to diversify their careers while helping address acute workplace shortages shows our commitment to ensuring the health workforce meets the needs of Aotearoa.”
Carlton Irving, chief clinical officer for allied health at Health NZ and chair of the Paramedic Council, stated: “Having begun my own health career as a paramedic and then retrained as a doctor, I can testify to the power of ‘cross-training’. I welcome the fact this new course creates efficiencies for students wanting options and the greater insights they’ll gain. The value to the health workforce is huge.”
Also from New Zealand, we recently interviewed Ryl Jensen, CEO of the Digital Health Association, about her work, priorities for the future, and the digital healthcare landscape in New Zealand.
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