What is the total subsidy expenditure on the 24/7 online GP service since 16 May 2025? and 1 other question

Answer

The Government’s Online GP Care service is a demand driven service which ensures New Zealanders can get timely medical advice and treatment when in-person appointments aren’t available. This is all part of our goal to fix the basics and build the future. With this initiative, our focus is on ensuring New Zealanders can access healthcare when they need it. That is why we have approved $143.499 million in operating funding over the forecast period so that the service can continue to grow. Online GP Care is already supporting tens of thousands of people, and it is an important part of our plan to deliver a more accessible and responsive health system that puts patients at the centre. I am advised that, as of 22 February 2026, Health New Zealand had spent approximately $4.778 million on the 24/7 digital GP service, associated digital infrastructure (including the shared digital health record), and related marketing activities. As I have said in the House, uptake of this service will only continue to grow. This is a demand driven service and we have funded it so it can do that.