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.
PHARMAC is changing the Special Authority criteria for empagliflozin and GLP-1 agonists, removing cardiovascular or renal risk as a requirement and widening access based primarily on HbA1c control and treatment pathways. Practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new criteria, ensure required treatment trials are documented, and note that existing funded patients will retain access.
Read moreNow ready for your funding applications, Te Manawa Taki | Midlands Workforce Hub has been established to support the development of our primary and community healthcare workforce by making training, education, and funding opportunities easier to find and access. See what is available and what is in the pipeline.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand has introduced a Stable Fees Policy for standard GP consultations as part of the 2026/27 funding agreement. Standard consultation fees are expected to remain at 8 June 2026 levels, unless an approved exception is granted. Practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the policy and review the full guidance on the Pinnacle website.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora | Health NZ has issued a public health advisory following the first detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a wild bird in New Zealand. Healthcare professionals should remain vigilant, notify any suspected human cases urgently, and remind patients not to handle sick or dead birds.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora | Health NZ has released updated guidance for providers offering COVID-19 vaccination, including simplified onboarding, vaccine preparation and claiming arrangements from 1 July 2026. Practices interested in providing COVID-19 vaccination should contact their Regional Approver and ensure vaccinators complete the required IMAC training.
Read morePinnacle, in collaboration with Hauraki PHO and the National Health Coalition, is inviting Expressions of Interest for a fully funded, facilitator-supported Te Ao Māori learning opportunity for general practice teams. Places are limited to 50 participants, so submit your EOI early to register your interest.
Read moreHealthpoint has launched Ask Healthpoint, a new AI-powered tool that helps people find health and wellbeing services across Aotearoa New Zealand using natural language searches. Explore the new tool, share it with patients and whānau where appropriate, and download the clinic poster from the Healthpoint website.
Read moreHelp recognise the outstanding contribution of your Practice Manager or Practice Administrator by submitting a nomination for the Practice Management of the Year Award 2026. Nominations close on Sunday 16 August 2026 and can be submitted by anyone within the practice team.
Read moreThe recording of the recent Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ Information Sharing and Security Awareness webinar is now available, alongside a new resource hub featuring practical guidance, quick reference guides and e-learning resources. Visit the webpage to access the webinar recording and support your team's information sharing and cyber security practices.
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