Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and can be uncomfortable, but prompt treatment can help relieve symptoms quickly and prevent the infection from getting worse.
Your local pharmacy can provide assessment, advice, and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs — without the need to wait for a GP appointment.
Understanding your symptoms
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder.
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and multiplying.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- A strong or frequent urge to urinate
- A burning or stinging feeling when passing urine
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
Symptoms can come on quickly and may worsen without treatment.
Why is treatment important?
Early treatment of a UTI can help to:
- Relieve uncomfortable symptoms
- Stop the infection from worsening
- Reduce the risk of it spreading to the kidneys
Our pharmacy team can help assess your symptoms and recommend the right treatment.
How we can help
At Tamatea Pharmacy 2023, our pharmacists can:
- Provide a private consultation and symptom assessment
- Determine if your symptoms are consistent with an uncomplicated UTI
- Supply funded antibiotic treatment if clinically appropriate
- Offer advice on symptom relief and hydration
- Provide safety-netting and follow-up guidance
- Refer you to a doctor or urgent care if needed
Who can use this service
You may be eligible for funded uncomplicated UTI treatment through your pharmacy if:
- You have an approved health need, and
- You are eligible for publicly funded health services in New Zealand, and
- You are a woman aged 16 to 65 years old
When to seek urgent medical help
This service is for uncomplicated UTIs only. Seek urgent medical care if you:
- Have fever, chills, or back pain
- Feel nauseous or are vomiting
- Are pregnant
- Have recurrent or ongoing UTIs
- Have symptoms that are severe or worsening
Our pharmacy team can help you decide the best next step if you’re unsure.
What to expect
Visiting Tamatea Pharmacy 2023 is simple and discreet:
- Speak privately with our pharmacist
- We’ll ask a few questions to assess your symptoms
- If appropriate, we’ll provide treatment
- We’ll give advice on what to expect and when to seek further care
What does this service 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
If you are not eligible for funding, you can still receive treatment - standard charges may apply.
Our team will always explain any costs upfront, so you can make an informed decision before proceeding.
Get relief from UTI symptoms today
If you think you may have a UTI, early treatment can help you feel better faster.
Visit Tamatea Pharmacy 2023 to speak with our friendly pharmacy team. We’ll assess your symptoms, check if you’re eligible for funded treatment, and help you take the right steps for quick relief.