Price Increase Jan 1, 2025

With the costs of running a General Practice continuing to rise, we have had to make the decision to increase our fees, effective 1st January 2025. We would like to reassure you that this decision was not made lightly and we are aware of the concern it may cause.

Why has this happened?

Our nurses provide an excellent service, yet the government funds general practice nurses at a significantly lower level than hospital nurses. Our staff could choose to go and work in the hospital or overseas for higher pay at any time. We require to bridge this financial gap to retain our staff until such time as the government changes to an equitable funding model that will protect the future of general practice nursing.

What if I can’t afford the increased fees?

Importantly, you should not avoid seeking medical help when needed. If you have any problems paying, or the fees put you off from seeing a doctor when you need one – please talk to us about it.  For medical emergencies, you always have the right to attend and be seen at the Emergency Department at our local hospital.

What can I do to help?

We continue to ask the government to support General Practice in the same way they support hospitals in paying their staff and running costs.

You can definitely help by e-mailing or writing to your local MP and the Minister of Health to express your concern at the government’s decision to continue to under-fund General Practices in Aotearoa.

 From the Partners at Ilam Medical Centre