NZ Launches 24/7 Digital GP Service to Expand Access to Primary Healthcare

New Zealanders across the country can now access primary healthcare services anytime they need it, thanks to a newly launched 24/7 digital general practitioner (GP) service. Announced by Health Minister Simeon Brown, this virtual health initiative enables individuals to consult registered doctors and nurses from any location using secure digital technology.

The online platform—available at info.health.nz/onlinegp—is part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure timely, accessible, and quality healthcare for everyone in the country. It caters especially to those who struggle to get a prompt appointment with their regular GP or require assistance outside of normal clinic hours.

What the Service Offers

The digital GP service connects users with New Zealand-registered healthcare professionals through a secure platform. Once connected, clinicians can:

• Diagnose symptoms and medical conditions

• Prescribe medications as necessary

• Provide specialist referrals

• Offer professional medical advice

The platform is designed for non-emergency health issues, serving as a bridge when traditional care is unavailable. Notably, it has already been used by nearly 4,500 people since its pilot in May 2025.

Who Benefits Most

The virtual service is intended to support a wide range of scenarios that often fall outside the reach of traditional care, such as:

• A parent caring for a sick child during the night

• An individual developing symptoms over a long weekend or public holiday

• Farmers or remote workers needing healthcare after hours

• Families traveling outside their usual GP network

• People not currently enrolled with any local clinic

Minister Brown emphasized the potential of the service to reduce non-urgent pressure on hospital emergency departments by redirecting patients to more appropriate, timely care.

Collaboration with Existing GPs

While the service is transformative, it is not intended to replace existing GPs. Instead, it complements the current system by enhancing access and ensuring continuity of care. All clinical notes from digital consultations will be securely shared with a patient’s regular GP, if they have one, to maintain consistent and connected care.

“This ensures safe, consistent treatment and strengthens follow-up care,” said Minister Brown. “It’s about delivering connected care New Zealanders can trust.”

Investment in Digital and Traditional Health Services

The introduction of the 24/7 virtual GP platform is part of a broader government effort to modernize and support New Zealand’s healthcare system. Alongside this digital initiative, the government is providing up to a 14% funding boost to general practices to support their essential work within communities.

“Our Government is focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare,” Minister Brown said. “That includes investing in digital solutions to make primary care more responsive and connected.”

How to Access the Service

The 24/7 online GP service is now available at info.health.nz/onlinegp, where users can find comprehensive information on pricing, approved providers, and their operating hours.

This initiative marks a significant leap forward in equitable healthcare delivery, ensuring that every New Zealander, regardless of location or schedule, can receive trusted medical care when they need it most.