The Wire with Sara

With the government having committed to a Covid-19 suppression strategy, primary care officials have raised concerns about the strain widespread delta could have on their sector. The primary care sector is the first point of contact in the healthcare system and includes general practices, community pharmacies, dentists and optometrists. This is where most people infected with Covid-19 will first seek care. 

News and Editorial Director Jemima Huston speaks to the University of Otago Wellington's Head of the Primary Health and General Paractice Department Lynn McBain about the primary care sector's concerns. They discuss what capacity the primary care sector has for an increase in delta cases and how increasing vaccination rates will relieve the potential stress on the sector. 

Last week it was reported that over 8500 people had become beneficiaries since the beginning of the Delta outbreak. Nevertheless, the government is yet to provide any additional support for people on benefits. Auckland Action Against Poverty, an advocacy group on wellfare and poverty, is calling for government support for beneficiaries to help people get through lockdown but also address generations of government neglect for vulnerable communities. 

News and Editorial Director Jemima Huston talks to AAAP's coordinator Brooke Pao Stanley about how lockdown has impacted beneficiaries, what AAAP's response was to the government’s Level 3 extension announcement yesterday and what work the group has been doing in the community during the Delta outbreak.

Intermittent fasting has become a popular eating pattern in recent years.  It can be defined as a meal timing schedule which involves cycling between eating and non-eating. A recent study has shown how Intermittent fasting can promote a longer lifespan and metabolic benefits. Joe talks to Professor Rachael Taylor, the Head of the Department of Medicine from the University of Otago, on the benefits of Intermittent fasting and what it does to the human body.

The Government has announced a major review of Aotearoa's electoral laws, and lowering the voting age is one of the main issues being considered.

An independent panel of experts recommended by political parties, universities, youth and Māori organisations, and the law society will be appointed to conduct the review by the 2023 elections. 

The youth-led campaign to Make it 16, has been advocating to lower the voting age to 16 in Aotearoa since 2019.

Jessica Hopkins talks to year 13 student, and Auckland member, Sanat about this announcement, and what the panel should consider in their decision. 

Here is that interview....