Covid helpline closes as virus approach changes

The helpline service was set up to help people with any queries about the virus.

Healthline's doctor services and specific Covid-19 helpline have come to an end.

Both were set up by the Ministry of Health as part of the country's Covid-19 response, and run by Whakarongorau Aotearoa New Zealand Telehealth Services.

They later came under Health NZ Te Whatu Ora upon its formation in 2022.

Funding for the services finished on June 30.

Health NZ's Martin Hefford says the public health system is changing the way it responds to Covid-19.

Covid will be managed as "business as usual" and treated in a similar way to other communicable diseases, like SARS, he says.

"From July 1, there will be no Healthline doctor support, but Healthline nurses and paramedics will continue to provide expert, trusted health advice, treatment, and information," Telehealth Services chief operating officer Brian O'Connell says.

"Callers seeking a prescription or other doctor support, will instead be told to contact their GP, a pharmacist, or a virtual doctor service."

Hefford says the change will allow Health NZ to refocus on other parts of the health system.

Regular doctor's practice fees would also be reinstated for Covid-19 healthcare visits for people aged 14 and over from July 1.

However, Covid-19 vaccines and rapid antigen tests (RATs) remained free for everyone over five years old.

Anyone needing Covid health advice or support could call Healthline on 0800 611 116.

-RNZ.

1 comment

BIG PROBLEM

Posted on 01-07-2024 09:21 | By fair game

COVID remains a massive health issue for NZ and is causing ongoing harm in NZ with more deaths than car crashes. Unless people can afford to get help, they won't. Infection rates will skyrocket burdening our hospitals even more. And under 30yrs old can't get boosters even if they want to!! Bring back free Pharmacist consults to get assessment / treatments. Head in the sand is the NZ approach.


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