Prescription Charges
Nelson Marlborough District Health Board

The Nelson Mariborough District Health Board would like to ensure that you are paying the correct amount for the medicines you, (as a PHO enrolled patient) are prescribed by your GP.

When you take your prescription to the pharmacy, much of the cost will be paid by the Government. You will however have to make a contribution towards the cost.

Some medicines are not fully subsidised by Government. You will have to pay extra for those medicines. Your GP will advise you if you are prescribed a medicine that is not fully subsidised.

How Much Should You Pay?

The amount you can expect to pay for each item prescribed by your GP* if you are a PHO enrolled patient.

No card

Adults 25 to 64 $15
or total cost of medication up to $15
Over 65 years $3
From 6 to 24 years $3
Children under 6 years no charge
After 1 July 2006,46 to 64 years $3

With card

Community Services Card $3
High Use Health Card $3
Prescription Subsidy Card ** $2
Care Plus enrolled 6 to 64 years $3

*Higher charges may apply if patient is not enrolled with PHO or the prescription is not from a PHO registered Q e.g. a specialist, optometrist, house surgeon, dentist etc.
**Applies after 20 prescriptions per family per year. There is no charge when used in conjunction with a Community Services Card.

Extra Charges

Pharmacies may charge you for extra products and services not covered by the DHB agreement.

Examples are:

The pharmacist is required to advise you of any extra cost before you get the medicines, to allow you to choose whether or not you want the extra service.

If you are concerned about charges please ask your pharmacist to explain them to you.

If, after explanation, you consider that you have been overcharged you can have your charge reviewed by sending a complaint to NMDHB Planning and Funding Division, Private Bag 18, Nelson.

Taken From NMDHB Brochure