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By Joseph Nathan

New Zealanders can now see a doctor in the middle of the night, from anywhere in the country – even a rural paddock – thanks to a new 24/7 online GP service launched nationwide today.

Health Minister Simeon Brown says the virtual health platform allows people to have secure video consultations with New Zealand-registered doctors and nurses at any time.

“This is about getting Kiwis help when they need it, especially if they can’t get in to see their usual GP or it’s outside clinic hours,” Brown said.

Already trialled by 4,500 users since May, the digital service is now fully available to the public through trusted providers at info.health.nz/onlinegp.

How it works

Using secure tech, the service connects patients with clinicians who can:

• Diagnose conditions
• Prescribe medications
• Offer treatment advice
• Refer to specialists
• Send notes back to your regular GP

Scenarios where it helps include:

• A mother with a sick child in the middle of the night
• A farmer needing help after hours
• A tourist falling ill while travelling
• A student without a regular GP
• Anyone with a non-urgent issue who would otherwise go to ED

Not a GP replacement – but a gamechanger

Brown stressed the service supports – but doesn’t replace – traditional general practice.

“It bridges the gap when someone can’t see their GP, and it keeps emergency departments free for actual emergencies,” he said.

Clinicians will be required to send notes from the digital consult back to the patient’s usual doctor to ensure continuity of care.

Backing frontline doctors

Brown also pointed to a record funding boost of up to 14% for GPs this year to support bricks-and-mortar care.

“We’re making sure the healthcare system works smarter – giving New Zealanders more options without compromising quality,” he said.

The 24/7 online GP service is now live, with pricing and provider details at:
👉 info.health.nz/onlinegp

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