Changes To Repeat Prescriptions

Effective 1st February 2026

We have have updated how we provide repeat prescriptions, in line with new New Zealand rules that allow prescriptions for up to 12 months for some stable long-term medications.

What this means for you

Some patients will now be able to receive a prescription for up to 12 months. Twelve-month prescriptions will only be issued during in-person consultations, and only when considered by your doctor or nurse practitioner to be safe and appropriate. Some patients may be eligible for a 6 month in person review and prescription, while others will still need a check-in, either by phone, or in person, more frequently depending on safety and monitoring requirements.

Who can get a 12-month prescription?

You MAY be eligible if all of the following apply:

• Your condition is stable
• You are on one or two medications only
• Your medication dose hasn’t changed recently
• Your blood tests and check-ups are up to date
• Your medication is considered low risk
• You take your medication reliably

Common medicines that MAY be eligible depending on your individual circumstances :

• Blood-pressure medications
• Hayfever medications
• Oral contraceptives
• Thyroid medication
• Cholesterol tablets
• Some antidepressants
• Some asthma medications
• Menopause hormone therapy

Who needs more frequent reviews?

You may need closer review with a shorter prescription interval if:

• Your condition is still changing
• Your medicine needs regular blood tests or physical monitoring
• You take multiple medicines
• You have multiple medical conditions
• You’ve had recent health issues or hospital admission
• You use certain higher-risk medicines (e.g. warfarin, lithium, insulin, long-term steroids)
• You take controlled drugs
• You are a new patient to our practice

Why do we have these rules?

To keep you safe and ensure:

• Your medicine is still the right one
• Your health is checked regularly
• Any tests you need aren’t missed
• Your medication continues to work well for you

How to request a repeat prescription

If you have more medication held at the pharmacy this will be indicated on the medication label as ‘repeats available’. Contact the pharmacy your medication was dispensed from when you are ready for a repeat. If there are no further repeats owing you will need a new prescription.

If you are renewing a 12 month prescription you WILL need to book an appointment with a doctor or nurse practitioner.

If you are renewing a 3 – 6 month prescription you MAY need to book an appointment.

You can request repeats via:

• Patient portal WELL APP
• Phone
• Speaking to our reception or nursing team

Please allow 2–3 working days for processing.

What happens when you request a repeat?

A clinician will check:

• When you were last reviewed
• Whether tests are due
• How stable your condition is
• Whether the medication remains appropriate
• Whether a consultation is needed

You’ll be contacted if we need to speak with you or see you before issuing the prescription.