27 August 2007

Whānau health boost - free under 6’s doctors visits

Another vital boost to whānau health has been announced by the Labour-led Government this afternoon, says Māori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia.

Health Minister Pete Hodgson announced this afternoon a new $8.2 million health initiative that works towards the objective of free health care for under sixes.

It will come into play at the beginning of next year, and will be made available each year to general practices that commit to those who are providing free care.

“More whanau will have access to free doctor’s visits for their tamariki so they can get the best start to life. It’s yet another example of the Labour-led governments investing in young Māori so they can realise their full potential,” says Parekura Horomia.

It is also a part of the Labour-led Government’s on going drive to lower the cost of primary health care for all New Zealanders.

Doctor’s fees have reduced by around half and medicine costs have dropped from $15 to $3. This has resulted in significant annual savings for whānau, with an average family health bill falling from around $940 to $440 a year.

Currently 61 per cent of GP’s general practices charge no fees for children under six, making the median fee $0. Average fees do vary across the country, but at a national level the average is still low at $-----------5.

“By making it cheaper to go to the doctor and get the prescriptions the health of our whanau and their ability to achieve is greatly enhanced,” says Parekura Horomia

“Focussing on the needs of our tamariki has been a top priority for this Labour-led Government.”

“We know our tamariki are the key to our future. That is why we are making such an investment. We’ve invested in their education through 20 free hours education for our 3 and 4 year olds. And to make sure they are fighting fit when they start school, we have introduced the ‘B4 school health checks’.

“We don't want anyone to think twice about taking their tamariki or mokopuna to the doctor because of the cost,” Parekura Horomia said.

ENDS

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