A struggle to staff the country's radiation oncology services is turning more cancer patients to private care. 

RNZ is reporting that a service caring for patients in five regions across the North Island is not allowed to recruit the staff it needs, despite recommendations from Te Whatu Ora. 

Cancer Society Co-Director Kate Gregory told Mike Hosking that the shortage is just one reason for the patient shift.

She says the private sector also has more cancer medicine options available.

LISTEN ABOVE

A struggle to staff the country's radiation oncology services is turning more cancer patients to private care.  
RNZ is reporting that a service caring for patients in five regions across the North Island is not allowed to recruit the staff it needs, despite recommendations from Te Whatu Ora.  
Cancer Society Co-Director Kate Gregory told Mike Hosking that the shortage is just one reason for the patient shift. 
She says the private sector also has more cancer medicine options available. 
LISTEN ABOVE

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A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

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