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Te Whatu Ora’s decision to axe free Covid tests raises concerns for struggling households

a pile of COVID RAT Tests

26 Sep 2024

NZ Herald

A South Taranaki iwi says Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora’s decision to axe free rapid antigen tests (RATs) will have a negative impact on the community.

Public funding for the tests ends on September 30, meaning from October 1 providers wishing to continue using or supplying RATs will have to source them from the commercial market. Members of the public will be able to purchase RATs from community pharmacies and retail stores such as supermarkets.

The RAT tests have been publicly funded and accessible to the health sector and communities since 2022.

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Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.