A new digital health service is being praised, but one doctor believes it's doing more harm than good. 

More than 21 thousand consultations have been delivered through the 24/7 online scheme, which launched in July. 

Health Minister Simeon Brown says it gives Kiwis faster access to care when usual GPs are unavailable. 

Despite views it's easing pressure on the health system, General Practice Association Chair Angus Chambers told Mike Hosking it hasn't made any difference to staffing issues. 

He says it's making problems worse as it's taking doctors away from providing care for people in clinics. 

LISTEN ABOVE