Author: Rob Olsen

COVID-19 advice line for primary and community health clinicians: 0800 177 622

Over the past few weeks, our primary and community care organisations have tackled some of the greatest challenges our health system has ever been faced with. We want to mihi to all the kaimahi (staff), both those on the frontline and those in support services, for your dedication and commitment to ensuring the public have […]

Rural GP Network secures more support for rural general practice

The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network has brokered an agreement with the Ministry of Health to extend locum support to keep vulnerable rural general practices operating as they come under mounting pressure as a result of Covid-19. Read the media statement.

Sign the petition to “Save Sounds Air”

The Network is urging its members to sign the “Save Sounds Air” petition that has so far collected more than 21,000 signatures. The Network believes the regional airline is a vital link to many rural communities and that it should receive Government funding to help avoid it going into receivership. Sounds Air provided links such […]

Urban doctors, nurses to boost struggling rural practices

The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network is very concerned that the COVID-19 outbreak will have a serious impact on rural New Zealanders ability to get the medical care they need compared to people who live in urban centres.  They are working closely with rural healthcare practices to make sure they have the staff and […]

Call for establishment of COVID rural testing stations

The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network is calling for the urgent establishment of rural testing stations in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic to cater for not only locals but also an influx of out-of-towners. NZRGPN Chairperson and rural GP Dr Fiona Bolden says feedback from rural practices is that there is already a […]

Otago experts warn pandemic risks accentuating rural-urban health inequities

In New Zealand, rural towns represent many of our most vulnerable communities. Residents of rural towns are overall poorer, older, more likely to be Māori and have poorer health outcomes than the cities. These communities rely on rural health services (both primary and secondary), the majority of which are chronically understaffed, with limited specialist services […]

Need information about Covid-19?

Here are three useful links: The Ministry of Health has a dedicated Covid-19 website. The Royal New Zealand College of GPs has dedicated resources on their website. The Immunisation Advisory Centre website.  Or 0800 Immune (0800 466 863).  

Covid-19 – an open letter from Dr Ashley Bloomfield, Director-General, Ministry of Health

Thank you for your hard work and support in preparing and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and your ongoing commitment to your communities. Please note the following updates: § On the 14th of March, the Prime Minister announced enhanced border restrictions, and increasing requirements on incoming travellers. Information around these border measures is available here https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-novel-coronavirus-information-specific-audiences/covid-19-novel-coronavirus-advice-travellers § […]