The opposition are calling on the government to take hospital wait times seriously after the death of a 4 year-old child.

Sebby Chua died waiting for medical treatment in Wellington Regional Hospital.

He was previously sent home and told to sleep off his illness, believed to be tonsillitis, as his family claim doctors brushed off concerns and told them not to worry.

His family have since lodged a complaint with the Health and Disability Commissioner.

National Party Health Spokesperson Shane Reti says political action needs to be taken to prevent this from happening again.

He says the government need to take emergency department waiting room targets seriously.

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