As Buller and Reefton again face GP shortages, the West Coast District Health Board has employed a Christchurch-based company to help manage its GP practices.
From July 8, Buller Health will be short of GPs for a fortnight and Reefton will be struggling for five weeks.
The shortages reflected the long-standing problem of recruiting and retaining GPs and relying on locums, said a report from the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) chief executive David Meates.
The WCDHB's new management contract with Better Health Ltd would provide an opportunity to build viable and vibrant DHB-owned general practices on the West Coast, Mr Meates said.
The partnership would lead to the establishment of a stable GP workforce, improved clinical, administration and recruitment systems and more focus on financial sustainability.