General Practitioners Aotearoa is calling for a properly funded primary care network to reduce hospital stress and prevent future industrial action.

A properly funded general practice network is the best way to reduce system stress and the likelihood of strike action, says General Practitioners Aotearoa chair Buzz Burrell.

Speaking to New Zealand Doctor Rata Aotearoa, Dr Burrell says GPA doesn't have a view on the merits of tomorrow's "mega strike", "but we support fair pay and equity across the board, and if there is any threat to that, we would stand alongside those who oppose it".

In a release, Dr Burrell says a properly functioning primary care network would reduce hospital workloads due to preventable diseases.

At present, he says most GP clinics in New Zealand are privately owned and rely on a combination of patient fees and the "outdated 'capitation' government funding system to keep their doors open".

GPA believes all medical workers should be paid fairly and work in safe conditions, says Dr Burrell.