Rethinking healthcare for New Zealand

SECTOR UPDATE - PwC, by Dr Monique Faleafa, Partner, PwC New Zealand

New Zealand’s health system is facing rising demand, workforce shortages, ageing infrastructure and growing expectations from patients. At the same time, AI, digital health and better data use are creating new ways to improve access, lift productivity and support better outcomes.

The opportunity is not simply to add more technology. It is to redesign care around what New Zealanders need most such as timely access, equitable outcomes, trusted information and services that are easier to navigate.

PwC’s Global Health Report highlights several shifts shaping healthcare globally, including AI, connected data, consumer-led care and healthier longevity. For New Zealand, three priorities stand out.

First, AI should be used to support clinicians and improve access. Its greatest value will come from reducing administrative burden, improving triage, supporting diagnostics, forecasting demand and helping clinicians identify risk earlier. In a system where timely access remains a key measure of performance, AI should be judged by whether it helps patients receive the right care sooner. Strong governance will be essential, including transparency, privacy protection, clinical oversight and safeguards against bias.

Second, New Zealand needs more connected, secure and useful health data. AI and digital-enabled care depend on accurate information that can move safely across the system under the right permissions. Better data sharing can reduce duplication, help patients avoid repeating their story and give clinicians a fuller picture of care needs. But public trust is critical. People need to understand how their information is used, how it is protected and supports better care.

Third, more care needs to move closer to people, homes and communities where clinically appropriate. Digital tools, virtual care, remote monitoring and stronger community-based services can help reduce pressure on hospitals and make care easier to access. This shift matters for all, but it must be designed with Māori, Pacific peoples, rural communities, disabled people and older New Zealanders in mind.

For health leaders, the message is clear. Transformation should be practical and outcomes-led. 

New Zealand does not need to replicate every global model. Its advantage can come from being focused, pragmatic and human-centred. The goal should be a health system where technology supports better care, data supports better decisions, and patients experience a system that is simpler, safer and more connected.

Source: PwC media release

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