NZREX NZ Healthcare System and Ethics

Question 1

What is the role of the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) for overseas-trained doctors?

Accepted Answer

To register doctors, ensure they are competent and fit to practise, and set standards for medical practice in NZ

Answer

To employ all doctors working in New Zealand

Answer

To negotiate doctors' salaries with District Health Boards

Answer

To provide free medical education to overseas doctors

Question 2

Under NZ medical ethics, what does the principle of informed consent require of a doctor?

Accepted Answer

Provide information about the diagnosis, proposed treatment, alternatives, risks, and expected outcomes in terms the patient can understand

Answer

Simply obtain a signature on a consent form

Answer

Only explain the treatment if the patient asks questions

Answer

Consent is only needed for surgical procedures

Question 3

What is ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) and how does it affect medical practice in NZ?

Accepted Answer

A no-fault personal injury insurance scheme covering all NZ residents — it replaces the right to sue for personal injury in most cases

Answer

A private health insurance company

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A government fund for hospital building projects

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An association of NZ medical colleges

Question 4

In NZ, what is the doctor's obligation regarding Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi)?

Accepted Answer

Practise in a culturally safe manner, understand Māori health disparities, and work to improve Māori health outcomes

Answer

Speak te reo Māori fluently

Answer

Only treat Māori patients if specifically trained in Māori health

Answer

The Treaty has no relevance to medical practice

Question 5

What is the Health and Disability Commissioner's role in NZ and why is it important for NZREX candidates to understand?

Accepted Answer

An independent officer who investigates complaints about health services and holds providers accountable under the Code of Rights

Answer

A politician who funds health services

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An administrator who manages hospital waiting lists

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A medical researcher who publishes clinical guidelines

Question 6

Under NZ medical ethics, when is it acceptable for a doctor to breach patient confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

When required by law, when there is a serious risk to public safety, or when the patient gives informed consent to disclosure

Answer

Never — confidentiality is absolute under NZ law

Answer

Whenever the doctor considers it in the patient's best interest

Answer

Only when the patient's family requests information