Health care in NZ

I went to the doctor and learned how it works.  I'm sure I don't know everything yet, but I've got the basics down now.

Your GP is your family's primary point of medical contact.  He sees men and women, adults and kids.  You don't need a separate pediatrician or OB.  You have to enroll your family with your doctor before seeing him.  This means giving your name and Health Ministry number, and having them photocopy your permanent resident visa if you are not a citizen.  Our doctor's name is Dr. Marriott, and he is just down the street in a small practice. 

All health care is subsidized in NZ (except for elective procedures like plastic surgery, as makes sense).  Going to the doctor is free for children, no exceptions.  Anything a NZ kid needs is free.  Adults do have to pay a co-pay for a doctor's visit, although if you have a low income the govt will cover that for you too.  The copay for us is about what we'd pay in the US, depending on what insurance you have, $40.  

Medications are also subsidized, at least, as long as you select your meds from a very long list of NZ-approved meds.  (Some of the medications we are used to in the US aren't available here, so you just have to get the one that's closest.)  And, get this:  the cost of a 3-month prescription for any med on the approved list?  $3.00.  A dollar a month!  (That's about 70 cents, US!)    Furthermore, your doctor can write a prescription for over the counter meds, which will enable you to get them for the $3 deal too.  So if you have a cold, you can see your doctor and he'll write you an Rx for cough drops and decongestant and Tylenol, and you walk out of the pharmacy with all that stuff for pocket change.