PHARMAC Subsidized Medicines: Who Qualifies and What You Get

This scheme provides a way for residents in New Zealand to access essential medicines at a reduced cost through a prescription subsidy.

👤Who it's for

To qualify for this support, you must be a resident of New Zealand. Additionally, you must have a valid prescription issued to you by a healthcare professional for the specific medication you are seeking.

🎁What you get

When you use this scheme, you receive subsidized prescription costs for essential medicine. This means that instead of paying the full retail price for your medication, the cost is reduced through government support to make healthcare more affordable for residents.

💰What it costs you

While the subsidy covers a significant portion of the cost, it is not entirely free. You are required to pay a standard $5 co-payment for each item dispensed to you. This fee is the direct cost you face at the pharmacy when collecting your subsidized prescription.

⚠️The catch to know

The most important thing to remember is that the subsidy is not universal for every single medication available on the market. Not all drugs are on the subsidized list. You should check with your healthcare provider or your pharmacist to confirm whether your specific medication is covered under this scheme before you expect the lower price.

📝How to apply

1. Visit your healthcare provider to discuss your medical requirements and check if your required medication is on the subsidized list.
2. Receive a valid prescription from your doctor or healthcare professional.
3. Present your prescription at a pharmacy to receive your medicine.
4. Pay the standard $5 co-payment per item at the pharmacy counter.

For further information and to check the status of specific medications, visit the official portal: https://pharmac.govt.nz