ProCare Welcomes Announcement From Minister To Strengthen Primary Care Funding And Access
The proposed update to the capitation funding model—set to take effect from 1 July 2026—is particularly encouraging.
Bindi Norwell, Chief Executive at ProCare says: 'The current model has been long overdue for reform. By factoring in multimorbidity, rurality, and socioeconomic deprivation, the new approach promises to better reflect the realities faced by general practices and the whānau and communities they serve.
'This is a positive step forward for the health system and for patients across Aotearoa, and we're pleased to see the Government recognising the critical role primary care plays in delivering timely, equitable, and community-based healthcare,' continues Norwell.
'Additionally, the Minister stated that some practices would not see a benefit from re-weighting capitation, and whilst this might be so, we will be advocating hard to make sure additional money is invested in the new formula to avoid any practices going backwards through this change. It would be a shame to lose ground after such a successful PSAAP round only a month ago'.
ProCare also supports the introduction of a new national health target to ensure more than 80 percent of people can access a GP within one week.
'As we've said time and time again, primary care is the fence at the top of the cliff, rather than the ambulance at the bottom. Timely access to care is essential for preventing more serious health issues and reducing pressure on hospitals. We look forward to working with the Government to help shape this target in a way that is both ambitious and achievable, and that works for both patients and practices,' says Norwell.
'We also remain committed to recognising and mitigating unintended consequences of targets on the health system. We are well aware of issues when similar targets have been introduced in hospitals in NZ, and overseas in general practice, and will work on our members' behalf to mitigate these'.
The additional investment in general practice training is another welcome move.
'Funding the full pathway for GPEP trainees is an absolute game-changer. We know how difficult financially it is for GPEPs, and anything that can be done to ease the financial burden and cover costs will be welcomed by those trainees.
'The funding for GPEPs also sends a strong signal that general practice is a valued and a vital specialty, and it will help build a stronger pipeline of GPs for the future,' points out Norwell.
However, ProCare cautions that implementation will be key.
'As always, the devil is in the detail. We'll be watching closely to ensure these changes are rolled out in a way that genuinely supports practices and improves outcomes for patients. We also look forward to continuing to work with the Government and sector partners to ensure these reforms deliver meaningful improvements for primary care providers and the communities they serve,' concludes Norwell.
About ProCare
ProCare is a leading healthcare provider that aims to deliver the most progressive, pro-active and equitable health and wellbeing services in Aotearoa. We do this through our clinical support services, mental health and wellness services, virtual/tele health, mobile health, smoking cessation and by taking a population health and equity approach to our mahi. As New Zealand's largest Primary Health Organisation, we represent a network of general practice teams and healthcare professionals who provide care to more than 830,000 people across Auckland and Northland. These practices serve the largest Pacific and South Asian populations enrolled in general practice and the largest Māori population in Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information go to www.procare.co.nz
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