More nurses can now prescribe more medicines locally, speeding up care for people across New Zealand.

Health Minister Simeon Brown says improving access to healthcare in communities is a key priority for the Government.

“These changes will mean people can get the medicines they need more quickly, with fewer delays and better continuity of care,” he says.

Under changes authorised by the Director-General of Health, registered nurse prescribers will be able to prescribe 211 additional medicines, on top of the more than 240 they can already prescribe.

The new list covers common and long-term conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory conditions and menopause symptoms, which many people rely on for regular treatment from their local clinic.

There are around 1,570 registered nurse prescribers working in primary care, community health and specialist services such as diabetes, respiratory and sexual health.

Pharmacist prescribers in hospitals and general practice can already prescribe over 1,700 medicines and will see their list expanded by 20 more, supporting more integrated care close to home.

The expanded lists reflect the advanced education, training and clinical expertise of nurse and pharmacist prescribers and sit alongside wider work to improve access to medicines, including more flexibility for other prescribing professions and new powers for podiatrists.

From 1 February 2026, some people on stable long-term medicines will also be able to receive prescriptions for up to 12 months, reducing costs and helping them stay on top of their treatment.

Mr Brown says enabling health professionals to work at the top of their scope will improve care while easing pressure on other parts of the health system.

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