Loss of Benefits Following Hospitalization

Key Takeaways:

• The New Zealand government cuts benefits to $55 a week for individuals who spend more than 13 weeks in hospital, unless they have a partner and a child or are a veteran.
• This reduction can be devastating for people with chronic illnesses, such as Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), who may have high disability costs.
• Beneficiary advocates argue that the decision to reduce benefits should not be automated and that a conversation with a case manager is necessary to determine an individual’s specific needs.
• The current system can be inaccessible for disabled people, particularly those in hospital, who may not have the energy or ability to navigate the process.
• There is a lack of support for people with ME/CFS and long Covid in the public health system, leaving them vulnerable to financial and physical hardship.

Introduction to the Issue
The story of Rhiannon Purves, a 34-year-old woman who has been bedridden in Wellington Hospital for months, highlights the struggles faced by individuals with chronic illnesses in New Zealand. Purves, who suffers from ME/CFS, has had her supported living payment reduced to $55 a week after spending more than 13 weeks in hospital. This reduction has caused significant stress and hardship, as she struggles to cover the costs of her medications and other essential expenses.

The Hospital Rate
According to the Ministry of Social Development, the hospital rate of $55.35 a week is intended to cover the costs of personal items, while all other costs associated with an individual’s health are the responsibility of the health provider. However, beneficiary advocate Kay Brereton argues that this rate is not sufficient to cover the costs of essential items, such as medications, appointments, and hygiene products. Brereton emphasizes the need for a conversation with a case manager to determine an individual’s specific needs, rather than relying on an automated process.

The Struggle to Access Support
Purves’ experience highlights the difficulties faced by disabled people in accessing support from Work and Income. Despite sending multiple emails and requests, Purves was unable to get a response from Work and Income, and her benefit was cut without any further communication. This lack of accessibility can be devastating for individuals who are already struggling with chronic illnesses, and can exacerbate their physical and financial hardship.

The Lack of Support for ME/CFS Sufferers
The story also highlights the lack of support for people with ME/CFS and long Covid in the public health system. According to ME Support general manager Vanessa Atkinson, there is "very little support" for individuals with ME/CFS, despite the fact that it is estimated to affect over 45,000 New Zealanders. Atkinson argues that the current system is "grossly unfair" and puts already vulnerable people at greater risk of financial and physical hardship.

The Need for Change
The experiences of Rhiannon Purves and others like her highlight the need for change in the way that benefits are administered for individuals with chronic illnesses. Beneficiary advocates argue that a more personalized approach is needed, one that takes into account an individual’s specific needs and circumstances. This could involve a conversation with a case manager, rather than relying on an automated process, to determine the level of support required. Additionally, there is a need for greater support for people with ME/CFS and long Covid, including access to essential services and financial assistance. By making these changes, the government can help to reduce the financial and physical hardship faced by individuals with chronic illnesses, and ensure that they receive the support they need to live dignified and fulfilling lives.