Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has provided further clarification of guidance for frontline healthcare services regarding testing of people presenting with symptoms consistent with measles. This guidance is applicable at all times, including during an outbreak.
Category B23 of the Health and Disability Services Eligibility Direction 2011 enables people not normally eligible for publicly funded healthcare to receive funded services if they have or are suspected of having an infectious disease.
Under this direction, people who are suspected or confirmed to have an infectious disease can receive publicly funded services that reduce or prevent the spread of the disease. It does not allow for funded services such as antiviral treatment where this does not affect disease transmission.
As Measles is an infectious disease, this direction is applicable. Measles is highly infectious, and cases are infectious before they develop any symptoms. Close contacts of measles cases can be considered suspected cases and will be eligible for publicly funded services under this category, to protect public health and limit the spread of the disease.
GP consultation fees will still apply i.e. co-payments, however, testing related to the infectious disease would be fully funded.
Patients can also check the Healthpoint website, or the website of their usual healthcare provider, for more details about co-payments and charges.
If a patient is suspected of having measles
It’s essential that those providing care for people with suspected measles have a clear understanding of the funded eligibility requirements. This should be clearly communicated to patients to help avoid any confusion or unexpected charges.
Information on eligibility criteria to access publicly funded health services in Aotearoa New Zealand can be found here: Get publicly funded health services.
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