Prescription fees returning but little new for health in Budget

Finance minister Nicola Willis

30 May 2024

NZ Doctor.

The return of the $5 prescription fee for most people is the main change for New Zealand’s health system in Budget 2024.

The Coalition Government has followed through on its election campaign pledge to bring back the fee for everyone except Community Services Card holders and their dependents and people aged over-65.

As was the case before the previous Government removed the fee last year, households who pay for 20 prescriptions in a year will be given a prescription subsidy card that entitles them to free prescriptions for the rest of the year and prescriptions will be free for under-14s.

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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.