Network updates

Previously called Pin Points

In this section we share clinical and practice operations updates from Pinnacle and the wider health sector. Use the search box and filters to help find what you’re looking for.

Have an update you’d like to share? Email us.

Te Whatu Ora Health NZ service access and winter key messaging

This month Te Whatu Ora will launch the next phase of its service access campaign to improve access to health advice and care and to help manage the impact of respiratory illnesses on the health sector over the winter period. The public messaging will focus on encouraging people to access the right services for them and stay home when sick, and supporting referrals for the healthy homes initiative for those who are eligible.

Improving childhood immunisation rates: Extended immunisation services

The provision of extended immunisation services is part of the kaupapa to improve childhood immunisation rates by offering services at a time that suit whānau who cannot attend during regular practice hours. These practices will offer childhood immunisations to both enrolled and non-enrolled whānau. Whānau are encouraged to contact these clinics directly to enquire about attending as booking in advance is preferable, however they will also accept walk ins.

Free community surgery day

Following the very successful free Community Surgery days last year, Braemar Hospital will again be opening its doors for a free surgery day on Saturday 13 September. GPs can submit referrals for patients who have been declined, are facing a significant wait time in the public system, and do not have health insurance, ACC cover, nor the financial means to fund private treatment for a number of procedures. Referrals should be made no later than Thursday 31 July 2025.

MedTech practices: Solution for accessing HealthPathways via BPAC

Recently, many MedTech patient management system practices have been having difficulty accessing HealthPathways via BPAC. Te Whatu Ora has provided this One Point Lesson as a solution to resolve this issue.

Professional development offered for minor skin lesion surgery

Braemar Charitable Trust is calling for expressions of interest from any GP or GPEP Registrar for a free professional development opportunity in minor plastic surgery/skin lesion removal. Please email Paula Baker by Monday 30 June, to express your interest.

Primary, community and rural postgraduate study pathway

The University of Waikato is offering a specialised primary, community and rural pathway as part of their postgraduate programme in Health Science, commencing in Trimester B, 2025 with HLTSC561 - Primary Healthcare Practice.

Fake videos targeting people with type 2 diabetes

The New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes (NZSSD) has been made aware of a number of deep fakes promoting fake "diabetes medications" that are using NZSSD members names, faces, and voices. NZSSD is warning people with type 2 diabetes to be cautious about health advice on social media, especially videos that appear to be from New Zealand doctors.

Assisted Dying Service update and Expression of Interest

The Assisted Dying service is sharing this update about the service specifications, payments and process in the hope of stimulating interest in doctors and nurse practitioners in becoming providers. As with all end of life care, this is complex work that can be incredibly rewarding. Dr Jo is happy to have a conversation with individuals or teams about the Assisted Dying service.

Funding now available for the next cohort of first year of practice nurses into primary care

Funding is now available for primary care, community, and rural health providers who are committed to supporting graduate registered nurses (RN) as they transition into practice. To be eligible for placement funding, employers must employ a graduate RN, provide preceptorship and clinical support, and hire the graduate RN for a minimum of 0.6 FTE for a period of 12 months or more.

For you

Useful links

For our network