Under sixes to receive free out of hours care

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced plans to introduce free after-hours GP visits for under six-year-olds.

The MOH is currently liaising with primary care organisations to develop the plans, following the government’s announcement that it would find around $7 million in funding and make it available for the scheme.

The initiative is being developed to ensure parents are not deterred from taking their child to see the doctor because of the financial implications. Out of hours consultations for children under six years old currently cost $17 on average, but in some cases this can increase to $100.

District Health Boards will liaise with local GPs and after-hours clinics in each district on the implementation of the scheme.

It is hoped that the scheme will be rolled out across all districts by 1 July 2012.