Why do so many clinics say they are not taking new patients?
A clinic can refuse to enrol you if it already has too many patients. Otherwise, a clinic should not usually refuse to enrol you. Not every clinic takes new patients, so you may need to contact several clinics. Use the Healthpoint website to find other clinics near you.
Official figures
- Cost to enrol
- Enrolling with a GP clinic is free. The clinic may charge a fee each time you visit.3
- How long enrolment takes
- Enrolment can take up to 3 months to complete, so enrol while you are still well.2
- Work visa holders
- You are eligible if your work visa lets you stay in New Zealand for 2 years or more (counted from your first day in New Zealand), or if your visa plus the time you were legally in New Zealand before getting it adds up to 2 years.1
- Australian citizens and permanent residents
- Eligible if living, or intending to live, in New Zealand for 2 years or more (continuous, counted from your first day in New Zealand).1
- Children aged 17 and under
- Children aged 17 and under are eligible if they are cared for by an eligible parent or legal guardian.1
Official sources
- Eligibility for publicly funded health and disability servicesHealth New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora · healthnz.govt.nz
- Signing up with a healthcare providerHealth New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora · healthnz.govt.nz
- General practicesHealth New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora · healthnz.govt.nz
- Zero fees for tamariki under 14Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora · healthnz.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Enrolling with a GP and who can get publicly funded healthcare →
People also ask
- How do I find a GP when I first arrive in New Zealand?
- Can I get public healthcare in NZ on a work visa?
- Does it cost money to enrol with a GP, and what documents do I need?
- Can international students enrol with a GP in New Zealand?
- Are GP visits free for children in NZ?
- Who can I call if I feel unwell at night and cannot see a doctor?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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