Uncertainty surrounds the future of more than 100 policy advisers at the Ministry of Health, which is seeking to streamline its core policy advisory role.
The ministry has confirmed it is consulting with staff over the changes, with decisions expected by the end of this year.
Restructuring gained momentum this year with the need to accommodate the establishment of several new groups, including the National Health Board.
The ministry says the setting up of the board, along with Health Workforce New Zealand and other internal agencies, leaves it needing to focus on its core role of providing policy advice to the Government.
Staff were warned this year that the quality of this advice must improve.
