15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in New Zealand

"Healthcare services in New Zealand are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free or low-cost for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. It includes primary care services such as general practitioners, community health services, and hospital services. The quality of public healthcare in New Zealand is generally high, with a focus on preventative care and access to specialist services. Foreign residents are eligible for publicly funded healthcare in New Zealand, however, they may be required to pay a fee for some services. Expats in New Zealand can use the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Private health insurance is also available for expats in New Zealand, which can provide access to additional services," remarked one expat in New Zealand.

"New Zealand has a comprehensive public health system that provides free or low-cost medical services to all citizens and permanent residents. The public health system is funded by the government and is managed by the Ministry of Health. The public health system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and specialist services. Private health care is also available in New Zealand, and many people choose to use private health care providers for additional services or for more specialized care. In addition, New Zealand has a number of health-related charities and organizations that provide support and services to those in need," wrote an expat living in New Zealand.

"Healthcare and health insurance in New Zealand can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. The cost of health insurance is determined by the level of coverage and the type of services included. Healthcare costs vary depending on the type of treatment and the provider. Generally, public healthcare is free or low cost, while private healthcare can be more expensive. Additionally, some services may not be covered by public healthcare, and may require private health insurance," said an expat in New Zealand.

"Emergency services in New Zealand are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 111, which is the national emergency number. This number is free to call from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. When calling, it is important to provide as much information as possible, such as the exact location of the emergency, the type of emergency, and any other relevant information. The operator will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to the scene," remarked one expat living in New Zealand.

"Wellington is widely regarded as having the best selection of medical specialists in New Zealand, with a wide range of specialists available in the city. Auckland is also a great option, with a large number of specialists available in the city and its surrounding areas. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Christchurch, Hamilton, and Dunedin. In addition, many rural areas of New Zealand have access to specialist services, with many rural hospitals and health centres offering specialist services," wrote an expat living in New Zealand.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in New Zealand. These medications are typically dispensed by a pharmacist after a prescription is written by a doctor. The medications available in New Zealand are regulated by the Ministry of Health and the Medicines Act 1981. The medications available in New Zealand are generally the same as those available in other countries, although some medications may not be available due to local regulations," wrote one expat.

"New Zealand has a high quality of medical care and facilities. The country has a comprehensive public health system, which provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens and permanent residents. The public health system is complemented by a range of private health care providers, offering a wide range of services. New Zealand also has a well-developed network of hospitals and medical centers, providing a range of specialist services. The country also has a strong focus on preventative health care, with a range of initiatives in place to promote healthy lifestyles," said one expat.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in New Zealand, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in New Zealand is known as the New Zealand Public Health System (NZPHS). It is a comprehensive system that provides free or low-cost healthcare to all New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. The system is funded by the government and is available to everyone regardless of their income or employment status. The system covers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and specialist care. The quality of care is generally high, and the system is well-regarded for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness," wrote an expat living in New Zealand.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in New Zealand. The government has implemented a range of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, including the introduction of contact tracing, testing, and isolation protocols. The healthcare system has also been stretched to its limits, with hospitals and clinics facing unprecedented demand for services. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system has responded quickly and effectively to the pandemic, providing timely and quality care to those in need. The government has also provided additional funding to support the healthcare system, allowing it to continue to provide essential services," said one expat.