The South Island’s West Coast and Bay of Plenty are facing the worst medical specialist shortages. 

The problem is so severe people in some regions have to travel a hundred kilometres to see a paediatrician. 

The shortfalls —including oncologists and dermatologists— are contributing to lengthening waitlists. 

Te Whatu Ora data shows the number of patients waiting more than a year for treatment is growing in 14 out of 20 districts. 

General and Development Paediatrician Dr David Newman told Mike Hosking that they're trying their best to stop the problem from sinking further. 

He says their waiting lists are horrendous and they don't know how to fix them without more staff. 

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