New Zealand faces severe shortage of neurologists, study finds
Medical Xpress
February 20, 2026
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New Zealand is facing a critical shortage of neurologists, according to a study by the University of Otago, Wellington. The research highlights that the country’s current workforce is unable to meet the growing demand for diagnosing and treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and stroke. This shortage is expected to worsen as the population ages and the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases increases.
The study points to several factors contributing to the shortfall, including a limited number of training spots for neurologists and challenges in retaining specialists in regional areas. Additionally, the rising complexity of patient cases and an increase in chronic neurological conditions have further strained the system. Neurologists are essential for providing specialized care, and their scarcity is leading to longer wait times, reduced access to treatment, and poorer health outcomes for patients.
The implications of this shortage are significant for public health. Without adequate neurology services, individuals with serious neurological conditions may receive delayed or suboptimal care, potentially worsening their prognosis. This situation underscores the need for a coordinated effort to address the workforce gap, including investments in training programs, recruitment strategies, and telehealth initiatives to expand access to care.
Health officials and policymakers are urged to prioritize solutions to this pressing issue. Increasing the number of neurology training positions, enhancing retention incentives for rural and underserved areas, and leveraging technology to improve remote consultations could help alleviate the strain on the system. Addressing the neurologist shortage is not only a matter of improving healthcare quality but also a critical step in ensuring equitable access to care for
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/20/2026