Primary Health Providers
This may seem like a strange question, but, are you aware that when you register at a health centre you are supposed to register with a doctor? Meaning, you choose your primary physician at the health centre.
That way, when you need to see a doctor, you make an appointment with the same one each time, rather than with whoever is available.
I read a lot of posts and comments about having to see a different doctor each time people visit their health centre, and I wonder why.
Do you ring to make appointments or do you just go in? If you ring first you are more likely to see your chosen doctor, rather than the duty doctor. You get what is called continuity of care. That way someone knows what’s going on and is less likely to miss clues. Doctors don’t have time to read everyone’s notes and will skim the last note, missing anything before. If you see the same doctor each time, they will get to know you and what’s happening, and put it together faster.
You can also see the nurse for a lot of issues. Which is cheaper, quicker and often all you need to do. You can also spend longer with the nurse talking about what’s happening and asking questions to find the answers, where a doctors appointment is often rushed. The nurse can then decide if the doctor needs to be seen or if the patient just needs some ointment or a prescription, which the nurse can then organise.
It’s also a lot cheaper going to the same doctor each time.
Many health centres let patients set up automatic payments to cover any costs. I pay $5 per week and I don’t have to come up with the money at the time of the visit. I am in credit and we have checkups each year, scripts are covered and when we do need to go in, I don’t worry that I have no money.
Try to choose a primary physician you are comfortable with and trust, and stick with them. Your health will be better for it.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.2% Yes
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13.5% No
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Mitre 10 Park Hawke's Bay survey
A short Mitre 10 Park Hawke's Bay survey is open for people who don’t currently use the park. Your input, added to info from park users, will help shape a new master plan being prepared by the sports park management team that will (amongst other things) make the park more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for all. Let them know what you think!
Topics include:
🏀 Awareness: Are you aware of the activities offered?
🏉 Perception: Do you feel the park is for everyone?
🏏 Access: Are there barriers keeping you from visiting?
🗓️ Survey closes 5pm, Sunday 1 December, 2024.
Take a few minutes to share your thoughts here:
www.myvoicemychoice.co.nz...
Hastings District Council is proud to support the development of a Mitre 10 Park master plan.
#HawkesBay #HaveYourSay #Mitre10SportsPark
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