GP vs Emergency Department: When to Use Which

## GP vs Emergency Department in New Zealand ### What is a GP? - **General Practitioner** - your main doctor - For non-emergency health issues - You can choose and register with any GP clinic - Appointments usually same day or next day ### When to See Your GP **See a GP for:** - Coughs, colds, flu - Minor infections - Ongoing health conditions - Prescriptions and repeat scripts - Health check-ups - Mental health concerns - Minor injuries - Vaccinations - Referrals to specialists **GP Costs:** - Adults (non-enrolled): $50-80 per visit - Adults (enrolled): $35-60 per visit - Children under 14: Usually free - Community Services Card holders: Reduced fees ### When to Go to Emergency Department (ED) **Go to ED for:** - Chest pain or difficulty breathing - Severe bleeding that won't stop - Suspected stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty) - Serious injuries (broken bones, deep cuts) - Loss of consciousness - Severe allergic reactions - Severe burns - Poisoning - Suicidal thoughts or self-harm **ED is FREE** for everyone in NZ, including visitors. **BUT:** ED is for emergencies only. You may wait hours if your condition isn't urgent. ### Alternatives to ED **Healthline: 0800 611 116** - Free health advice 24/7 - Nurses can advise what to do - Available in many languages **After-Hours Clinics:** - Open evenings and weekends - For urgent but non-emergency issues - Cheaper than ED - Check location: healthpoint.co.nz **Urgent Care Clinics:** - For injuries and urgent conditions - Faster than ED - No GP referral needed - X-rays often available **Pharmacy:** - Pharmacists can advise on minor conditions - Can provide some medications without prescription - Good first stop for minor issues ### How to Enrol with a GP 1. Find a clinic near you: healthpoint.co.nz 2. Call or visit to check they're accepting patients 3. Complete enrolment form 4. Provide ID and visa documentation 5. Your previous medical records can be transferred ### Eligibility for Subsidised Healthcare **Free or subsidised care if you:** - Are a NZ citizen or permanent resident - Have a work visa for 2+ years - Are from Australia or UK (reciprocal agreements) - Are a refugee **Full cost if you:** - Are a visitor on tourist visa - Have a work visa under 2 years (some exceptions) ### Important Tips - Register with a GP before you get sick - Ask about Community Services Card if on low income - ED is free but long wait for non-emergencies - Call Healthline if unsure where to go - Keep your GP clinic's number saved in your phone