Dear Health New Zealand,

I am making an official request for information under the Official Information Act 1982 regarding the proposed cuts to Health New Zealand’s data and digital workforce. Given the significant implications of these changes on patient care, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency, I seek further details on the decision-making process, risk assessments, and expected impact of these workforce reductions.

I request a breakdown of the specific roles, departments, and regional allocations affected by the proposed cuts. Additionally, I seek access to any internal impact assessments conducted to evaluate how these reductions may affect patient safety, system reliability, and cybersecurity risks.

Please provide a copy of the budget plan outlining the $99 million savings target for data and digital operations. I also request any cost-benefit analyses or financial modelling justifying these cuts, along with details of any external consultancy firms involved in advising or implementing these changes, including total spending on such services.

Furthermore, I seek any internal risk assessments or reports discussing the potential consequences of these staff reductions. If strategies have been documented to mitigate risks - such as ensuring continuity of IT support and maintaining cybersecurity protections—please provide details of these plans.

I also request a summary of feedback received from internal staff regarding these proposed changes. Additionally, please provide information on any public consultation or stakeholder engagement undertaken before making these decisions.

Finally, I request copies of any minutes, reports, or briefings provided to senior executives or government officials concerning these workforce reductions. If there has been any correspondence between Health New Zealand and the Privacy Commissioner regarding these changes, please include relevant documents.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Yours faithfully,
Richard Shelton