An independent advisory group has been set up to make urgent improvements to New Zealand's health system.
The five-member panel will guide the government on how to invest its promised $8 billion to reform primary care, mental health and disability services.
Health Minister David Clark said the sector is in tatters, and is blaming years of under-resourcing and neglect.
He told Mike Hosking the committee is made of up of experienced health officials, who will report directly to the department.
Dr Clark hinted at perhaps looking at fewer than the current 20 DHBs.
"I think there's room for more shared services in the health sector, that's one of the services I am looking to promote."
LISTEN ABOVE AS DAVID CLARK SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING
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