Tend launches 24/7 online GP consultations across New Zealand

Tend has expanded its online GP consultation service to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout New Zealand.

This change allows patients across the country to consult with a general practitioner online at any time, regardless of their location. The service aims to provide greater accessibility and support to individuals who may find it challenging to visit a GP during regular business hours or who may require medical attention outside of routine times.

According to Tend, the current average wait time to see a doctor online is under three hours. The organisation highlighted that the extended hours are particularly beneficial for those who are unable to take time off work for appointments or for parents who may have children become unwell during the night.

A recent email from Tend said: "We just wanted to reach out and let you know some exciting news! Just in time for winter we have extended our Online Now doctor hours to 24 hours, 7 days a week! You can now see a Tend GP online from anywhere, anytime - day or night."

The service offers consultations for a wide range of conditions that can be safely addressed online. These include common health issues such as cold, coughs, flu, headache, fever, chills, sore throat, runny nose, sinusitis, asthma, migraine, mild allergies, eye issues including conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal complaints such as constipation and diarrhoea, minor muscle and bone injuries like sprains and strains, sexual health matters, skin irritations, stomach upset, urinary symptoms, prescription renewals, and medical certificates for absence from work or school.

The company outlined which cases are suitable for its online consultations:

"Suitable for Cold, coughs and flu Headache, fever, chills, sore throat, runny nose and tender face (eyes, nose and cheeks), sinusitis, asthma, migraine Medical certificates Off-work medical certificate or sick note for your employer or school Allergies Mild allergic reactions Eye issues Swollen, red/pink, puffy, itchy, conjunctivitis Gut & bowel issues Constipation, diarrhoea Muscle & bone issues Sprains and strains Sexual health Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), bacterial vaginosis (BV), thrush, contraception Skin irritations Rash, bites, stings, itchy skin, acne Stomach issues Vomiting, acid reflux, stomach ache, tummy bugs, gastroenteritis (stomach flu) Urinary issues Itchy, burning and stinging when peeing, urinary tract infection (UTI) Prescriptions Short term prescriptions for a one-off condition or a long-term medication Labtests and referrals We can help connect you with medical specialists, labs and X-ray services."

The online service is not suitable for a number of conditions, including medical emergencies, ear pain, long-term condition management, mental health consultations, WINZ medical certificate requests, requirements for controlled medications, and any procedure that necessitates an in-person examination or intervention. The company advises those experiencing chest pain, breathlessness, or anyone at risk of harm to call emergency services immediately.

Appointments that occur after 10 pm and before 8 am, and those booked on public holidays, will incur an additional fee of NZD $10. Children under 14 years of age who hold a Community Services Card remain eligible for free consultations during these hours.