All You Need To Know About Public Healthcare in New Zealand
If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is the necessity for adequate healthcare. If you are planning on immigrating to New Zealand, here is a rundown of what you need to know about public healthcare in New Zealand.
Emergency Medical Care
If you are injured in an accident, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides comprehensive, no-fault personal injury cover for all its residents and visitors. Funded by tax, it covers medical and surgical expenses and prescription drugs.
Private Healthcare
There is both private and public healthcare in New Zealand. Just as in South Africa, the private sector comes at a premium and allows you to jump the queues at private clinics and hospitals.
Medical aids, called health insurance in New Zealand, is affordable and some companies cover it. As an expat waiting to qualify for public healthcare, you can buy health insurance from either an international health or local health insurance provider.
Public Healthcare
Similar to South Africa, public healthcare in New Zealand is funded by taxpayers and offered free or heavily subsidised to its permanent residents. Unlike South Africa, though, the system and quality of care is fantastic. It covers:
- Hospital care
- Emergency treatments
- Children’s immunisations
- Prescription medication
- Standard medical tests
- Visits to the GP
- Ambulance services.
Once you hold a temporary resident visa valid for two years or longer or hold a New Zealand resident visa, you will be eligible. While you wait, though, not all visa holders can get public healthcare in New Zealand. It is best to check the New Zealand Ministry of Health’s website.
As soon as you arrive, register with a GP. Choose a practice that offers any specialties you may need and how busy its associated hospital is. You should also join your local Primary Health Organisation (PHO) which is district-funded and offers further medical subsidies.
For more information on immigrating to New Zealand and the best healthcare options for you and your family, please contact the Tri-Nations Migration team without delay.
