The rural health sector is the latest to put up its hand for more migrant workers.

Migrant healthcare workers are being allowed into the country under an exemption that's due to expire at the end of the year.

Rural General Practice Network chief executive Grant Davidson says he's worried what will happen after that.

He told Tim Dower the Government needs to either urgently loosen its criteria to let in migrant workers, or train more New Zealanders.

"Currently we've got 50 vacancies across the country sitting on our books waiting to be filled. 25 per cent of our rural practices constantly are vacancies." 

Davidson says there aren't enough New Zealand doctors willing to work in rural communities.

"You have to be prepared to drive long distances to service your community needs, and you need to have a partner and children committed to living in those rural areas."

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