The Ministry of Health will shortly advertise a new position, the principal medical adviser. Speaking today at the Association of Medical Specialists Association, health minister Annette King said the position would be available for a senior clinician on secondment from a DHB. The successful applicant will be directly responsible to the director-general with a personal reporting line to the minister and well become an ex officio member of the director-general's executive team. The adviser will provide a clear insight, unburdened by other administrative responsibilities or loyalties.