Andrew Dickens Afternoons

Have you ever considered how amazing it is that the health system operates at all. If you think about the pure logistics of every operation that will happen in New Zealand today, it is an awesome collaborative exercise that most industries couldn't match. A half dozen extensively skilled practitioners have to meet in a purpose built room. Some of them will have studied for 15 years or more to be at this level. The surgeons not only need knowledge but physical prowess and stamina as surgeries can last as long as 12 hours or more. The whole team need to be spotlessly clean and hygienic.  As does every piece of highly technical equipment they're about to use. An army of post operative carers need to be ready to provide 24 hour attention after the procedures. It's a small miracle that happens every day and we take it for granted. But at the same time as recognising the brilliance of our health system, we also have to admit the system is broken. The past weeks' headlines of staff shortages, room shortages and bure