What are Extended Pharmacy Services?

Extended Pharmacy Services are funded healthcare services provided by trained pharmacists. They allow us to assess and treat common conditions without you needing to see a GP, helping you get care faster and closer to home.

Who can use these services?

These services are available to people who meet specific eligibility criteria. This may include:

• Children under 14 years old
• Whānau members with the same condition as an eligible child
• Women under 25 years old (for emergency contraception)
• Women aged 16–65 years (for uncomplicated UTI treatment)

You must also be eligible for publicly funded health services in New Zealand and have an approved health need.

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, don’t worry - just ask our team at Tamatea Pharmacy 2023 and we’ll be happy to check for you.

Do I need to book an appointment?

No appointment is needed.

You can simply walk in and speak to one of our pharmacists for a private consultation.

Is there a cost?

Many Extended Pharmacy Services are subsidised for eligible patients.

• If you have a Community Services Card (CSC), there may be a small charge of up to $5
• If you do not have a CSC, there may be a charge of up to $20
• Emergency contraception is free for eligible patients

We’ll always let you know about any costs before providing treatment, so you can make an informed decision.

What conditions can you treat?

We can assess and treat a range of common conditions, including:

• Pain and fever in children
• Dehydration (oral rehydration)
• Conjunctivitis (eye infections)
• Head lice and scabies
• Emergency contraception
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)

What happens during a consultation?

Our pharmacist will:

• Ask about your symptoms
• Assess whether the service is suitable
• Provide treatment or advice if appropriate
• Refer you to a GP or other provider if needed

All consultations are carried out in a private space.

When will I be referred to a doctor?

If your symptoms are more serious, outside the scope of the service, or need further investigation, we will refer you to your GP or urgent care to make sure you receive the right care.

Is the service confidential?

Yes.

All consultations are completely confidential, and you can speak to our pharmacists in a private consultation room.

How quickly can I be seen?

Most patients are seen the same day, often immediately — no waiting for a GP appointment.

Can pharmacists prescribe medication?

For these services, trained pharmacists can assess your condition and provide funded treatment directly where appropriate, without needing a prescription from a doctor.

What if I’m not eligible?

If you’re not eligible for funded treatment, you can still access assessment and treatment from our pharmacy - it just won't be subsidised.

Our pharmacy team can:

• Provide treatment and advice for your condition
• Recommend over-the-counter or pharmacist-supplied options
• Explain any costs upfront so you can make an informed choice
• Help guide you to the right next step, such as a GP or urgent care if needed

Do I need to bring anything?

It’s helpful to bring:

• Identification (ID), if available
• Your Community Services Card (CSC), if you have one
• Details of any medications you’re currently taking

If you don’t have these with you, you can still come in - our team will do their best to help.

Still unsure?

Pop in to Tamatea Pharmacy 2023 and chat with our friendly team - we’re here to help you find the right care, quickly and easily.