The Commerce Commission (ComCom) of New Zealand has released a draft determination proposing to decline the New Zealand Gynaecology Association Inc (NZGA) and its members' request for authorisation to collectively negotiate with Southern Cross Health Insurance and hospitals.

NZGA sought authorisation for a 10-year collective negotiation period and a 6-month standstill agreement. However, the Commission's preliminary view indicates that the potential detriments of these arrangements outweigh any possible benefits.

Additionally, the Commission has rejected NZGA's application for interim authorisation, stating that there is no evidence of urgency and that granting such authorisation would likely lead to greater detriments than benefits.

The Commission is inviting submissions from interested parties regarding its draft determination, with a deadline for submissions set for 7 October 2026, and cross-submissions due by midday on 21 October 2026.

NZGA represents gynaecologists and advocates for their interests. Currently, gynaecology surgeries funded by private health insurance operate on a fee-for-service basis, where each service provider bills separately. Southern Cross Health Insurance is looking to implement changes to billing and contractual arrangements, which may include significant fee reductions for gynaecologists.