GPs overwhelmingly back funding deal

Local GP clinics will receive a major funding boost to help more New Zealanders get an appointment when they need one, with investment targeted to where patients need it most, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

Keeping GP visit costs the same for patients as last year 
Updating the way GP clinics are funded for the first time in over 20 years, so clinics serving patients with greater health needs receive more money 
Rewarding GP clinics who get improved results on immunisations, cancer screening, and long-term health conditions

“New Zealanders are better off when they can see their GP quickly and close to home. When people can access care early, they stay healthier and out of hospital, which is better for patients and the whole health system,” Mr Brown says.

“An overwhelming 86 per cent of GP clinics voted in favour of Health New Zealand’s 2026/27 funding package, which will provide general practice with an additional $120.6 million each year.

“Last year the Government delivered the largest-ever funding uplift to GP clinics, and this package builds on that. It puts more money into frontline services so clinics can stay open, see more patients, and deliver the care their communities rely on.”

From 1 July 2026, the formula used to distribute funding will also change for the first time in more than 20 years. Previously, funding was based on the age and sex of enrolled patients, and didn’t include many other indicators of health needs or the cost of delivering care in different areas.

“The way we fund general practice no longer reflects the needs of patients. For the first time, funding will go beyond age and sex to also include multimorbidity, rurality, and socioeconomic deprivation – better recognising the real health needs of the people each clinic serves.”

Mr Brown says rural communities will benefit significantly from the changes.

“Rural and remote practices face higher demand and greater challenges in delivering care. This change ensures a patient in a small rural town is valued just as much as one in a major city.

“On top of rurality being part of the way GP clinics are funded, 22 rural practices that don’t currently get rural funding will be eligible for rural funding top ups.

“Ensuring patients have access to timely GP appointments is exactly why this Government has been so focused on responsible fiscal management – so we can continue investing in the health services that matter most to New Zealanders.

“We are focused on fixing the basics and strengthening our healthcare system. Investing in the cornerstone of the healthcare system is key to ensuring people can access the primary care they need close to home.” ...