PSNZ Welcomes The Government’s Decision To Fund Extended Pharmacy Services

PSNZ President Michael Hammond welcomes today’s
announcement by the Government to fund extended pharmacy
services.

“It is great to see the Government funding
extended pharmacy services nationwide. This $5 million in
funding will mean that patients can access consultations and
funded treatment for a range of health conditions,” says
Michael Hammond.

Health New Zealand is proposing that
from June 2026, participating pharmacists will be able to
provide funded medicines for children and their families for
pain and fever management, oral rehydration, and conditions
such as scabies, head lice, and conjunctivitis as well as
treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections and
emergency contraception.

“At the moment, most people
can access these services from a pharmacy, what is changing
is that the Government is funding consultations and
treatment for these health conditions,” says Michael
Hammond.

“We know too many people are waiting too long
to see a GP, New Zealanders will soon be able to access
funded care for a number of health conditions direct from
the pharmacy. This is particularly important in rural and
high needs areas across the country.

“Pharmacists
are highly skilled health professionals and community
pharmacies offer timely access to care for New Zealanders.
This proposal is good news for the sector. We want pharmacy
to be funded appropriately for the services it delivers to
patients, with a move towards funding for more clinical
services. Today’s announcement is a positive step in that
direction.”

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