Network updates

Previously called Pin Points

In this section we share clinical and practice operations updates from Pinnacle and the wider health sector. Use the search box and filters to help find what you’re looking for.

Have an update you’d like to share? Email us.

Free community surgery day

Following the very successful free Community Surgery days last year, Braemar Hospital will again be opening its doors for a free surgery day on Saturday 13 September. GPs can submit referrals for patients who have been declined, are facing a significant wait time in the public system, and do not have health insurance, ACC cover, nor the financial means to fund private treatment for a number of procedures. Referrals should be made no later than Thursday 31 July 2025.

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Claims for six-week immunisations – have you submitted yours?

There is only a short time left for practices to claim their six-week immunisations under the pre-call/recall funding initiative. Data from the Aotearoa Immunisation Register (AIR) suggests there are number of six-week immunisations currently un-claimed. This funding aims to support practices with the time and effort required to undertake good pre-call/recall processes, and where required, referral to outreach or other vaccination service providers.

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Assisted Dying Service update and Expression of Interest

The Assisted Dying service is sharing this update about the service specifications, payments and process in the hope of stimulating interest in doctors and nurse practitioners in becoming providers. As with all end of life care, this is complex work that can be incredibly rewarding. Dr Jo is happy to have a conversation with individuals or teams about the Assisted Dying service.

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LearnOnline is moving: Please download your records

On 1 July 2025, Te Whatu Ora is moving the courses currently available on LearnOnline to their two main learning sites – Ko Awatea Learn and healthLearn. If you have completed training on LearnOnline and wish to have a record of completion and any associated certificates, please log into LearnOnline before 30 June 2025 and download them.

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Consultation on the regulatory framework for Assistant / Associate Psychologists (AP)

The New Zealand Psychologists Board is now consulting on the development of a regulatory framework for a new scope of practice, currently being referred to as Assistant / Associate Psychologist. View the full consultation document, feedback form and plain language summary here on our website. You can provide your feedback using the online survey or via email to the New Zealand Psychologists Board. The consultation is open until 16 June 2025.

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New rheumatic fever guidelines

New guidance has been published on the prevention of rheumatic fever. There are many changes in this comprehensive document from previous guidelines, with much more emphasis on equity, and social determinants of health and their impact, and how those risks can be mitigated. There are also changes to the guidance on the identification and management of strep A infections. Read more here and on our new rheumatic fever resources page.

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