The fully funded Seasonal Pressures Clinical Telehealth Service currently being provided by Whakarongorau has been extended until 30 November 2023.

Introducing Michael Brenndorfer, Mātanga Tapuhi, nurse practitioner who will be speaking at our Pinnacle nursing conference on Saturday 11 November at our Hamilton office. Read more about Michael in his bio.

Introducing Dr Michelle Honey, Associate Professor, School of Nursing, The University of Auckland who will be speaking at our Pinnacle nursing conference on Saturday 11 November at our Hamilton office. Read more about Michelle in her bio.

Introducing Lorraine Hetaraka, chief nursing officer, Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health who will be speaking at our Pinnacle nursing conference on Saturday 11 November at our Hamilton office. Read more about Lorraine in her bio.

BPAC has removed the radio buttons on the acute/emergency specialty forms for Emergency-Base Hospital and Emergency-Hawera Hospital that ask about smoking, family violence, tetanus status and more. This information is not needed and simply delays the referrer when filling up the form. These changes went live Wednesday 11 October.

Since November 2021, assisted dying has been available in Aotearoa New Zealand. Understanding the experience of providers, carers, families and clinicians involved in the care of patients involved is important as we move towards a review of the legislation due in 2024. This ethically approved research project is a good opportunity to contribute your experience.

People who may have been exposed to the recent Cryptosporidium outbreak in Queenstown may come back home and need investigation and referral to public health. A fee for service additional payment is being provided through WellSouth PHO for these patients.

These classes are designed for older people and offer active options for everyone in a fun, safe and effective way. They are also a chance to share a relaxed cup of tea and catch up on the community news. Hosted by friendly, knowledgeable leaders in communities around Taranaki, there will be a Strength and Balance class to suit everyone.

Please note the Waitara Health Centre x-ray machine is currently out of action until early December due to a room refurbishment and a new machine arriving late November.

Teva has advised that supply issues are affecting methylphenidate ER 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg and 54 mg tablets. All strengths are affected by this and the RNZCGP is working with Pharmac around the supply issue with the brand methylphenidate (Teva ER methylphenidate). Pharmac is trying to find alternative brands such as Concerta or Rubifen SR and working with Teva on resupply dates for Teva ER methylphenidate.