A programme aimed at getting more under-served groups into medical school is being scrutinised.  

New research in today's New Zealand Medical Journal has found Otago University's affirmative action initiatives haven't increased the number of students from poorer backgrounds. 

Māori now make up 20% of enrolments, reaching parity with European and Asian enrolments for the first time. 

But Auckland University Emeritus Professor of Medicine Des Gorman told Mike Hosking the programme wasn't designed to just lift Māori enrolment. 

He says when it was brought in 50 years ago, it was aimed at improving Māori health outcomes and access. 

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