Ka Ora, a new rural clinical telehealth service has been co-commissioned by Te Whatu Ora and Te Aka Whai Ora to reduce barriers for rural communities to access primary care.

The service aims to support the well-being of people living rurally and should enhance the care already provided by rural health teams.

The 0800 number service will provide after-hours clinical telehealth care between 5pm – 8am on weekdays and 24 hours a day on weekends and public holidays.

If you are either enrolled with a rural medical provider, live in a rural area, or are currently visiting a rural area, you are eligible to use this service. Further information and maps outlining who can use this service can be found on the Ka Ora website.

The service is staffed by Kaiawhina, nurses, GP’s and emergency medicine specialists and will provide access for all rural people whether they are enrolled or unenrolled with a primary care practice.

The service provides free access to care navigators and nurse consultations for assessments and advice. Fees apply for consults with a clinician, which include Nurse Practitioner, General Practitioner or Emergency Doctor.

Under 14s are free, and those on Community Services Card or who are 65 years and over will pay $19.50.  Adults aged 14 to 65 years will pay up to $79 for consults weekdays between 5pm – 10pm and weekends between 8am - 10pm, or up to $99 overnight from 10pm – 8am.

The phone number for the telehealth provider is 0800 2 KA ORA or 0800 252 672, you can also book an appointment online at www.kaora.co.nz.

If you need an urgent appointment after 10pm, you are advised to call the Ka Ora team directly on 0800 252 672.