The Government says it has a clear focus on reducing cancellations for planned surgeries.

Health NZ analysis shows about eight percent of elective surgeries are cancelled within 24 hours by a hospital.

One in five elective surgery cancellations are caused by an acute or emergency case, needing to take precedence.

Health Minister Shane Reti told Mike Hosking there's a number of things to work on.

He says they include, ensuring theatres are being used properly, with the right surgeons, and making sure they're working on time.

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