16 June 2026

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) says today’s comments describing cultural safety as an “ideological agenda” risk undermining patient care, following the announced changes to the leadership of the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

While acknowledging the Government’s focus on improving access to care, strengthening the workforce, and ensuring New Zealanders receive timely treatment, the College emphasises this must not come at the expense of the standards that underpin safe and effective clinical care.

Expectations that doctors examine “privilege,” challenge the “dominant culture” of the health system, and address systemic barriers reflect core elements of modern clinical practice, grounded in evidence and directly linked to improving patient safety, quality of care, and health outcomes, not ideology.

RACP strongly supports MCNZ’s role as an independent regulator responsible for setting standards for competent and ethical medical practice, including its work on cultural competence, cultural safety, and Hauora Māori.

Concerns are also being raised across the health sector about maintaining regulatory independence and the consistency of standards over time. Former MCNZ Chair Dr Curtis Walker has highlighted the importance of clear roles between Government and independent regulators. Dr Walker, who is also a member of the RACP Māori Health Committee, has emphasised that maintaining this separation is critical to ensuring standards remain grounded in clinical expertise and patient safety.

RACP Māori Health Committee Chair Dr Matt Wheeler said:

“Describing cultural safety as an ‘ideological agenda’ misunderstands its role in healthcare. This is evidence‑based clinical practice that supports patient safety, quality care, and better outcomes.
Putting patients first means ensuring care is safe, equitable, and culturally responsive, these are not competing priorities, they are inseparable.”

RACP remains committed to working constructively with Government, MCNZ, and the wider sector to support a health system that delivers high - quality, equitable, and trusted care for all New Zealanders.