The RDSS works with and in support of RMO Units on the ground to deliver the vision of “a well, well trained medical workforce for today and into the future” balancing the critical service delivery role of the RMO workforce with RMO wellbeing and training.
The RDSS team has valued the opportunity to work in partnership with STONZ over the past year. We had the pleasure of speaking at the delegates conference in November where we provided an update on some of the work currently underway or in the pipeline for 2026. Below are a few key updates for STONZ members.
Centralised Expenses
We are pleased to confirm direct payments for the following training expenses are now live. This means from December 2025 onwards, trainees will no longer have to pay these upfront and carry these costs while waiting on reimbursement.
College training fees: All Colleges (except RANZCO and ANZCA) have agreed to invoice Health NZ directly for RMO training and membership fees.
What do you need to do? The good news is nothing!
Unless you;
Want to opt out and continue to pay your fees and seek reimbursement - if this is you, please let your RMO unit and College know.
Are a trainee in RANZCO or ANZCA – you will need to continue to pay and seek reimbursement from the District. We are continuing to work with these colleges to get them onboard as soon as possible and will keep you updated.
Domestic relocation expenses: We have agreed with removalists Crown, Allied and NZ Van Lines to pay costs associated with relocating RMO households directly for eligible RMOs.
What do you need to do? If you are relocating and eligible for relocation expenses;
Check with the RMO Unit at your new district if they have a preferred supplier arrangement or if 3 quotes are required.
Contact the provider/s to arrange a survey of your household goods requiring move.
If one of the three named providers, they will send a quote to Health NZ which will be reviewed and a quote approved. Once the move is complete Health NZ will pay the invoice directly.
If you elect to use another removalist you will need to pay and seek reimbursement from your district once your move is complete.
We are already planning for a new and improved process for next year, to further simplify and remove the need for three quotes at some districts. We will keep you updated!
Medical Indemnity Insurance premiums: We have agreed with two providers MPS & NZMII to pay group scheme premiums directly. Next year we will start working on establishing national group schemes which will mean RMOs will not need to change these each time they transfer.
What do you need to do? If you have opted to join a group scheme via your local District process, nothing further is required, payment will be made for you.
If you have opted to organise your own insurance, you will need to continue to pay and seek reimbursement from the District.
Supporting RMO to SMO transitions:
Keep an eye out for an EOI going live shortly for RMOs nearing the end of training.
We encourage you to register to receive updates on available and upcoming SMO roles in your specialty. This will also help Districts to plan and proactively identify SMO roles for RMOs in anticipation of vocational registration.
Coming next….Projects underway or kicking off in 2026.
The role of the medical registrar – what are the challenges and opportunities to improve
Rural Hospital medicine – enabling continuity of employment and consistency in T&C and benefits
Medical Education leave and expenses - streamlining the process for application and approval of MEL
The RDSS team wishes RMOs and the STONZ team a wonderful holiday season and look forward to working with you all again in 2026.