FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES DIAL 111

Christmas and New Year opening hours at your practice

We wish you all a safe and happy holiday period

Many of our practices will have different hours of work during this time. Check our practice directory for opening hours, or if you are away from home try www.healthpoint.co.nz to find a general practice or urgent care centre close to you.

If you or someone close to you is in pain or feeling unwell during this time please contact your medical centre first. If they are closed they will have a phone service to give advice on where you can go for help, or divert you to Healthline who can help you assess the best treatment and next steps.

Hospital emergency departments are for emergencies only. Please don't head to the hospital unless it is truly needed, such as a life threatening emergency.

Protect yourself and others from COVID-19

With COVID-19 still in our communities, there are simple steps that can slow the spread of the virus — protecting yourself and others. Enjoy summer this year by being prepared and knowing how to stay safe.

If you have ongoing medical concerns make sure you are always prepared for this holiday period

  • Do you have enough medicine and supplies to cover weekends and public holidays?
  • Are you up to date with your tests and other health needs?
  • Do you know the opening hours of your practice? Check the practice directory for Pinnacle practice opening hours.
  • Do you know where the closest after hours medical centre is? Check Healthpoint to find out.
  • Book early to get an appointment at your doctor or local pharmacy, as they will likely also be taking a break.
  • Plan ahead for what you might do if you get COVID-19, where you would isolate, where to get antivirals if needed.
  • Immunise, particularly if you need the MMR, whooping cough (Pertussis) or COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Practice healthy habits like hand washing, staying home when sick and wearing a mask in crowded indoor environments.
  • Prepare for hotter than usual temperatures by slip slap slop and wrap, drink plenty of water, and look out for people at risk from hotter days.

Healthline

You can call Healthline free on 0800 611 116 for general health advice and information (available 24/7).

Healthline is staffed by an experienced team that includes registered nurses, paramedics and health advisors, who can provide you with health information and advice on care.

They can arrange to talk with you in your language - when your call is answered, say you'd like an interpreter and the language you’d like to speak in.