- New digital health service allows virtual consultations with NZ-registered doctors and nurses.
- Over 4,500 people have already used the service since its pilot in May.
- Aims to reduce pressure on emergency departments and improve access to care.
New Zealanders across the country can now access trusted primary healthcare around the clock with the launch of a new 24/7 digital health service, Health Minister Simeon Brown has announced.
“A new 24/7 digital health service, launched today, means people can have virtual consultations with New Zealand-registered doctors and nurses, anytime, anywhere,” Brown said.
“This is about making sure Kiwis can get the medical help they need when they need it, especially when they can’t get a timely appointment with their regular general practitioner (GP), or outside normal clinic hours.”
Using secure digital technology, the service connects patients to doctors and nurse practitioners who can assess symptoms, diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide referrals.
Eight providers have so far been contracted by Health New Zealand, including: Bettr Online, CareHQ, Emergency Consult, The Doctors Online, MedOnline, Pocket Lab, Tend, and Practice Plus.
Since the pilot was launched in May, nearly 4,500 New Zealanders have accessed the digital service.
“This means people can receive professional medical advice and treatment when they need it – no matter where they are or what time it is,” said Brown. Examples include:
- A mother with a sick child in the middle of the night
- Someone waking up with a sudden rash on a public holiday
- A farmer in rural New Zealand needing help after hours
- A family on holiday in a different part of the country
- Someone not enrolled with a local GP
The digital health service is also expected to help ease pressure on emergency departments by treating non-urgent issues earlier and in the right setting.
“This digital service is giving people greater access to the care they need, but does not replace the critical role of GPs, who are responsible for their patients’ continuity of care,” Brown said.
“It ensures care is available when and where it’s needed, helping bridge the gap when traditional access to a GP isn’t possible.”
Providers will be required to send clinical notes back to a patient’s GP after an appointment to ensure safe, consistent treatment and strong follow-up care.
“At the same time, we're backing GPs with a record up to 14 per cent funding boost this year to support the critical work they do in our communities,” Brown said.
“Our Government is focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare. That includes investing in digital solutions to make primary care more responsive and connected.”
The 24/7 online GP service is now live at info.health.nz/onlinegp, with full details on pricing and how to access care through approved providers, including their operating hours.