National releases 'middle path' health policy

National says scrapping Labour's plans to extend subsidised visits to the doctor for all working age adults will save $180 million to spend on other health areas.

National leader Don Brash said if elected he would follow a "middle path" between universal and fully targeted primary healthcare system.

National would retain doctor and prescription subsidies for those under 25 and those over 65, but not continue with Labour's planned extensions.

The cut would save $180 million by 2007/2008 with the savings used to increase subsidies for the "genuinely needy" and other health initiatives.

National also promised $100 million a year for three years to "slash" waiting lists.

- NZPA