Residents of Rakiura/Stewart Island will once again have improved access to primary healthcare with the return of a monthly GP-led clinic at Rakiura Medical Centre.
Beginning this month, the visiting clinic will run from 9:00am to 4:00pm, offering consultations for patients enrolled with Bluff Community Medical Centre as well as casual patients. The service is designed to bring essential healthcare closer to home, reducing the need for island residents to travel to the mainland for routine medical care.
Appointments can be booked by phoning (03) 214 5261 and asking for Sheena (please advise “Island Consult”), or by emailing hpw@nkmp.nz.
The reintroduction of this service reflects a strong commitment to improving equity of access and supporting the wellbeing of the Rakiura community.
Practice Manager Maria Colligan-Ward says the team is thrilled to see the service recommence:
“We’re delighted to be bringing the monthly GP clinic back to Rakiura. Access to regular, reliable healthcare is incredibly important for any community, and even more so for those in remote locations. This service means residents can receive care closer to home, without the added stress and cost of travelling. It’s a meaningful step in supporting the health and wellbeing of the Rakiura community.”
The clinic offers low-cost consultations for enrolled patients, with standard GP visits priced at $30, reduced fees for Community Services Card holders, and free visits for children under 14. Casual patients are also welcome.
This initiative highlights a continued focus on delivering patient-centered care and strengthening healthcare access for rural and remote communities.
Photos below: CEO Tracey Wright-Tawha and HPW Practice Manager Maria Colligan-Ward visit the island. Thanks to Cherie from Awarua Whanau Services who lives on the Island for her warm hospitality and tour!
