Pathlab has updated its guidance on wound swab indications as part of its commitment to diagnostic stewardship. Swabs add clinical value in a defined set of scenarios, and the e-ordering menu will be updated to reflect this. Read on for the full list of indications and advice on when wound swabs are unlikely to be of benefit.

Slides and video are now available from last week's webinar on the new primary care health target, held by Te Whatu Ora. The session tackled critical issues facing the sector such as general practice workforce constraints and patient access challenges. It also outlined the tactical action plan and data measurement frameworks being implemented to ensure 80 per cent of New Zealanders can access a GP appointment within a week. If you missed it, check out these resources.

The University of Auckland is recruiting GP peer groups across Te Manawa Taki / Midlands to participate in a focus group study on how general practitioners approach the menopause transition. The one-hour sessions will be held at a location convenient to the group, facilitated by a vocationally registered GP researcher. Read on for full participation details and study documentation.

From 30 September 2026, the starting age for free bowel screening will drop to 56, bringing more than 200,000 additional people into the National Bowel Screening Programme. This significant expansion is projected to prevent hundreds of cancers and save hundreds of lives over the coming decades. Read on for what this means for general practice and how to support eligible patients.

The persistent pain service has transitioned to an allied health–led model, consistent with other districts across Te Manawa Taki. The service now focuses on functional restoration, self-management, and a biopsychosocial approach to persistent non-cancer pain. Read the update from Chief Medical Officer Lisa Williams for details on the changes and updated referral pathways.

A new Advanced Audiology Practitioner clinic at Taranaki Base Hospital is improving early assessment for tamariki with suspected glue ear, with advanced audiologists working alongside ENT services. Early results show around half of children assessed are either fast-tracked to surgery or discharged from specialist care, getting tamariki to the right place sooner. Read the update from Chief Medical Officer Lisa Williams for referral details and what this means for primary care.

There are some changes to be aware of within Taranaki's immunisation coordinator service, including an interim period of cover from 9 June to 6 July. Regional colleagues are available to support providers during this time. Read on for contact arrangements and how to get the support you need.

Te Whatu Ora has issued a public health advisory regarding an Ebola outbreak (Bundibugyo virus) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, noting that the current risk to New Zealand remains low. Please remain vigilant: in the unlikely event that you suspect a case, urgently notify your local Public Health Service by phone and contact your clinical microbiology service to discuss testing.

The Ministry of Health's latest update confirms New Zealand remains in Phase 1 of the Government's Fuel Response Plan with no fuel restrictions in place, though providers are reporting rising costs and more missed appointments. General practices are encouraged to promote digital appointment options to patients and revisit their Business Continuity Plans now.

Temporary workforce constraints are affecting Te Whatu Ora Taranaki gastroenterology services, with reduced outpatient capacity and possible delays to assessment and treatment. Referrals should continue as usual and will be clinically triaged in line with prioritisation criteria, within capacity constraints.