I’m sure by now many of you have already read headlines anywhere from NZ Doctor to Stuff.co.nz regarding the governments offer of 3 per cent increase in capitation funding – against a backdrop of inflation levels of 6.9 per cent.

While the dollars are certainly promised in this record pledge to New Zealand’s health system, Justin Butcher, Pinnacle acting chief executive, isn’t breathing a full sigh of relief just yet.

From 1 January 2022, Taranaki and Tairāwhiti indici claims for primary mental health extended GP consultations will be a one step process and practices will not be required to ‘outcome’ cases. Any claims lodged before 31 December will still need to be outcomed.

The summertime locum grant was established to help ease the pressure some rural practices face during the peak holiday season such as an influx of patients and the increased costs in attracting and accommodating locums during these peak periods.

Pinnacle is delighted to announce a further nursing scholarship of $10,000 for 2021. Applicants are encouraged to focus on projects that influence or impact on improving access to primary care and/or closing the health equity gap.

During the COVID-19 lockdown virtual consultations for POAC cases were funded. We are pleased to announce that this will be a permanent change.

Pinnacle CEO Helen Parker blogs on why she's advocating for a health service restucture.