Network updates

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.

Have an update you’d like to share? Email us.

Free community surgery day

Following the very successful free Community Surgery days last year, Braemar Hospital will again be opening its doors for a free surgery day on Saturday 13 September. GPs can submit referrals for patients who have been declined, are facing a significant wait time in the public system, and do not have health insurance, ACC cover, nor the financial means to fund private treatment for a number of procedures. Referrals should be made no later than Thursday 31 July 2025.

Primary, community and rural postgraduate study pathway

The University of Waikato is offering a specialised primary, community and rural pathway as part of their postgraduate programme in Health Science, commencing in Trimester B, 2025 with HLTSC561 - Primary Healthcare Practice.

Professional development offered for minor skin lesion surgery

Braemar Charitable Trust is calling for expressions of interest from any GP or GPEP Registrar for a free professional development opportunity in minor plastic surgery/skin lesion removal. Please email Paula Baker by Monday 30 June, to express your interest.

Fake videos targeting people with type 2 diabetes

The New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes (NZSSD) has been made aware of a number of deep fakes promoting fake "diabetes medications" that are using NZSSD members names, faces, and voices. NZSSD is warning people with type 2 diabetes to be cautious about health advice on social media, especially videos that appear to be from New Zealand doctors.

Claims for six-week immunisations – have you submitted yours?

There is only a short time left for practices to claim their six-week immunisations under the pre-call/recall funding initiative. Data from the Aotearoa Immunisation Register (AIR) suggests there are number of six-week immunisations currently un-claimed. This funding aims to support practices with the time and effort required to undertake good pre-call/recall processes, and where required, referral to outreach or other vaccination service providers.

Assisted Dying Service update and Expression of Interest

The Assisted Dying service is sharing this update about the service specifications, payments and process in the hope of stimulating interest in doctors and nurse practitioners in becoming providers. As with all end of life care, this is complex work that can be incredibly rewarding. Dr Jo is happy to have a conversation with individuals or teams about the Assisted Dying service.

Funding now available for the next cohort of first year of practice nurses into primary care

Funding is now available for primary care, community, and rural health providers who are committed to supporting graduate registered nurses (RN) as they transition into practice. To be eligible for placement funding, employers must employ a graduate RN, provide preceptorship and clinical support, and hire the graduate RN for a minimum of 0.6 FTE for a period of 12 months or more.

Pathlab: Skin prick allergy testing request process

From 1 June Pathlab will only accept referrals via an online form. Pinnacle is approaching Pathlab to ask if they would consider developing a BPAC referral form.

LearnOnline is moving: Please download your records

On 1 July 2025, Te Whatu Ora is moving the courses currently available on LearnOnline to their two main learning sites – Ko Awatea Learn and healthLearn. If you have completed training on LearnOnline and wish to have a record of completion and any associated certificates, please log into LearnOnline before 30 June 2025 and download them.