An agreement has been reached by Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) and Te Whatu Ora to ensure those under 14 receive free after-hours care during the festive season.
The arrangement also ensures those under six years old have free consultations during the day.
In October, Tauranga Accident and Healthcare had no other option but to increase its fees to keep the lights on.
GPs say healthcare in the city is in crisis, Sam Kelway reports. (Source: 1News)
However, this afternoon WBOP PHO Chief Executive Lindsey Webber said the changes will come into effect on Monday December 18 and will be reviewed as part of wider work in the sector next year.
“This collaborative effort to ensure equitable access to urgent care services for children demonstrates a commitment to working together as health sector partners to address service sustainability challenges in the current economic environment," she said.
Tauranga Accident and Healthcare treats 60,000 people each year and if it were to close, it would increase the demand on the emergency department at Tauranga Hospital.
The interim measure is an attempt to maintain the after-hour service, while Te Whatu Ora explores a national plan to address after-hour issues across the country.
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