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.
Eligibility age for National Bowel Screening Programme being lowered to 56 years
Read morePathlab update: Diagnostic stewardship, wound swabs
Read moreExpressions of interest open for primary care medical pathway
To help Te Whatu Ora understand the potential interest from primary care employers, they are asking for expressions of interest (EOIs) from general practices who may want to host placements from 2026.
Read moreTe Whatu Ora nursing scholarships are open
Scholarships of up to $45,000 a year will be available for 120 registered nurses working in primary or community care. The funding can cover tuition, incentives for you and your employer, and travel/accommodation if needed. Applications close 30 September.
Read moreApplication of Fees Framework for acute and urgent appointments in general practice
Pinnacle wants your feedback on Te Whatu Ora’s expectations around fees for urgent and acute GP appointments. Your views will help inform our advocacy and discussions with Te Whatu Ora. This issue may also be discussed as part of the PSAAP process, so you might also wish to share your feedback with your contracted provider negotiator.
Read moreMedtech and Medtech Evolution users: Bowel screening Patient Prompt enhancements
Te Manawa Taki (Midlands) bowel screening was added into the Patient Prompt in 2022. Te Whatu Ora is pleased to share that further enhancements were made to the Bowel Screening Patient Prompt on Wednesday 10 September.
Read moreChanges to Taranaki Foot Protection Service referral criteria
The Foot Protection Service (FPS) has a significant podiatry vacancy. This is impacting on their ability to meet the demands on the service. To manage this staffing deficit, they are temporarily modifying the referral acceptance criteria, to ensure they are providing assessment and intervention for those patients with the highest clinical risk.
Read morePharmac update: Widened access to eligibility criteria for Covid antiviral medicines
From 1 September 2025 the eligibility criteria widened for access to COVID-19 antivirals. The new addition to the eligibility criteria allows access for people who are 50 years and over and considered by their healthcare professional to be at high risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection. Other access criteria remain the same.
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