Previously called Pin Points
In this section we share clinical and practice operations updates from Pinnacle and the wider health sector. Use the search box and filters to help find what you’re looking for.
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Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ is asking services to preserve limited Bicillin L-A supplies for children aged 13 and under receiving rheumatic fever prophylaxis. Practices should transition eligible people over 13 to Benzetacil as soon as possible, order Benzetacil if needed, and contact their supplier to return excess Bicillin stock for redistribution.
Read moreThe 2026 Voluntary Bonding Scheme is open for registrations of interest until Wednesday 23 September (5:00pm).
Read moreFunded flu vaccination is now available to all children aged 6 months to under 5 years, following high rates of influenza-related illness and hospitalisation among young children.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora | Health NZ has contacted around 300,000 people, including people in Te Manawa Taki, encouraging them to get their flu vaccination amid high levels of influenza-related illness and winter pressure on health services. Practices may see increased patient enquiries and vaccination bookings as a result.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora has introduced BPAC referrals for referring pēpi and tamariki between 6 weeks to 6 years to the Outreach Immunisation Service (OIS). Practices can now refer directly to Outreach Immunisation Services using the familiar BPAC referral function within their Practice Management System (PMS).
Read morePHARMAC is changing the Special Authority criteria for empagliflozin and GLP-1 agonists, removing cardiovascular or renal risk as a requirement and widening access based primarily on HbA1c control and treatment pathways. Practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new criteria, ensure required treatment trials are documented, and note that existing funded patients will retain access.
Read moreA measles case has been confirmed in Palmerston North with no identified source, meaning undetected cases in the community are possible. Clinicians should be alert for measles symptoms, particularly in people who spent time in Palmerston North from 4–18 July or Wellington on 11–12 July, and check current locations of interest. Suspected cases should be isolated, tested by PCR and notified to the local Medical Officer of Health without waiting for test results.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand has introduced a Stable Fees Policy for standard GP consultations as part of the 2026/27 funding agreement. Standard consultation fees are expected to remain at 8 June 2026 levels, unless an approved exception is granted. Practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the policy and review the full guidance on the Pinnacle website.
Read moreNow ready for your funding applications, Te Manawa Taki | Midlands Workforce Hub has been established to support the development of our primary and community healthcare workforce by making training, education, and funding opportunities easier to find and access. See what is available and what is in the pipeline.
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