Hospital Visits and Ambulance Services for Visitors to New Zealand

Public Healthcare: Funded by the government and generally free or low-cost for residents. Visitors may incur costs for services unless covered by travel insurance. 

Private Healthcare: Operated independently and usually requires direct payment or private health insurance. Private services can offer shorter wait times and more personalized care. 

Availability: Public hospitals in New Zealand have emergency departments that provide urgent medical care 24/7. 

Cost: Emergency care is typically free for New Zealand residents, but visitors will be charged. Charges can be substantial, and visitors are advised to have travel insurance to cover these expenses. 

Process: Upon arrival, you will be assessed by a triage nurse who will prioritize care based on the severity of your condition. Wait times can vary depending on the urgency of your condition. 

Referral: If you need to be admitted to a hospital for non-emergency treatment, you usually need a referral from a GP or specialist. 

Costs: For visitors, hospital stays and treatments will incur charges. Payment may be required upfront or billed later. 

Auckland: Auckland City Hospital, Starship Children's Hospital. 

Wellington: Wellington Regional Hospital. 

Christchurch: Christchurch Hospital. 

Dunedin: Dunedin Hospital. 

Maternity Services: Available in major hospitals and some private clinics. 

Pediatric Care: Specialized pediatric hospitals and units in major cities. 

Mental Health Services: Offered in hospitals and specialized facilities. 

Availability: Ambulances are available nationwide and provide emergency transport to hospitals. 

Response Time: Emergency ambulances typically aim to respond within minutes, but times can vary depending on location and traffic conditions. 

Cost: Ambulance services are generally covered for New Zealand residents under ACC. For visitors, the cost can be significant, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers ambulance fees. 

Emergency Number: Dial 111 for ambulance services. This number is free and can be called from any phone. 

Information to Provide: Clearly state the nature of the emergency, your location, and any details about the situation. Stay on the line until instructed otherwise. 

Availability: For non-emergency situations requiring transport, some private companies offer ambulance services. 

Booking: Non-emergency ambulance services can be booked in advance and are usually for scheduled transport rather than immediate emergencies. 

Coverage: Travel insurance should cover medical expenses, including hospital visits, ambulance fees, and repatriation if necessary. 

Verification: Check with your insurance provider to ensure that you are covered for medical emergencies and understand the claims process. 

Notify Providers: Inform the hospital or ambulance service that you have travel insurance and provide the details of your insurance policy. 

Documentation: Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts as you will need these for filing a claim with your insurance company. 

Payment: Visitors will be billed for medical services. Payment may be required upfront in some cases. 

Billing Process: You will receive a bill for services, which can be settled by credit card, cash, or bank transfer. Check with the hospital’s billing department for payment options. 

Billing: Ambulance services will also send a bill to the patient. Ensure that you obtain a detailed invoice for any insurance claims. 

Availability: Many cities have after-hours clinics that provide medical care outside regular office hours. 

Cost: Fees apply, and visitors should check if these clinics are covered by their travel insurance. 

Location: Urgent care centers are available in larger cities and provide medical care for less severe conditions that require prompt attention. 

Cost: Similar to hospital visits, urgent care centers will charge visitors for services. 

Service: Healthline offers free health advice and information 24/7. 

Phone: Call 0800 611 116 for assistance. 

Assistance: Tourist information centers can provide guidance on local healthcare services and help with accessing medical facilities. 

Availability: For non-emergency medical needs, local general practitioners (GPs) can provide consultations and treatment. 

Cost: GP services for visitors will incur charges. 

Policy Details: Familiarize yourself with your travel insurance policy and coverage for medical emergencies before traveling. 

Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance provider and local embassy or consulate. 

Emergency Services: Understand how to access emergency services and the location of nearby hospitals. 

Language and Communication: Ensure you can communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Many medical professionals in New Zealand speak English, but having a translation app or service can be helpful.