Source: Covid-19 New Zealand Government Announcements
If you are at risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19 you will still get free healthcare.
With the Omicron variant circulating, most people can recover at home. This is due to very high vaccination levels and widespread natural immunity.
Additionally, with easy access to testing and self-isolation, we can focus on those who are more vulnerable.
People eligible for free healthcare
If you are at higher risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19, you are still eligible for free healthcare from your doctor.
This protects those who are most at risk of getting very ill from COVID-19, including:
- people with high-risk medical conditions
- Māori
- Pacific peoples
- people with disabilities
- those over the age of 65
- anyone else that meets the criteria for access to antiviral medicines.
If you have COVID-19
If you are isolating at home, you should call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 if you need advice or guidance on managing your symptoms.
You can also contact your local pharmacist or your healthcare provider if you need to see someone.
If you require hospital-level care, it remains free.
Testing and vaccination remain free
Free rapid antigen tests (RATs) are available for everyone from participating collection centres.
Vaccinations are free and available at health providers and pharmacies.
The best ways to continue to protect yourself and others are:
- test when you are feeling unwell
- being up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccinations
- wearing a face mask.
