New 12-month Prescription Guidelines
From 1 February 2026, nationwide changes to prescription rules mean that GP’s will be able to issue some patients with a prescription for 12 months.
For many people, a 3-month or 6-month prescription will be the safest option. Your GP will decide whether to extend your prescription length or not.
3-monthly prescriptions will continue to be available (requested either during a GP consultation or via Manage My Health (MMH) or telephone request)
You will need to book an in-person Medication Review with your GP if you think you may be eligible for a 12-month prescription.
During the Medication Review consultation, your GP will confirm whether a longer prescription is appropriate for you. Not everyone will be eligible for a longer prescription
You cannot request a 12-month prescription via MMH, telephone or during a standard GP consultation
Prior to a Medication Review, your regular prescription will remain on the regular 3 monthly prescribing.
What Is Involved In A Medication Review?
The College of GP’s (RNZCGP) recommend an annual in-person Medication Review. These reviews will be required to check your medicine is working, that you are not having side effects, and to review your recent investigations and notes
A dedicated Medication Review will take up to 15 minutes and does not allow time for assessment and treatment of other issues
Who May Be Eligible?
You may be eligible to receive a 12-month prescription if:
- Your health condition is stable
- Your medication and dose haven’t changed for at least 6 months
- You do not need regular monitoring (like blood tests or blood pressure checks)
- Your medication is approved for 12-month prescribing
- You are happy to attend a yearly in-person review to check the medicine is still right for you
The decision to extend your prescription length or not, belongs with the prescribing GP based on the above factors
What Is Not Included
- Controlled medications (eg, opioids, stimulants such as ADHD medication)
- Medications taken only as needed
- Conditions or medications that require monitoring within 12 months
- If your condition or medication dose has changed in the past 6 months
For some people, a 3-month or 6-month prescription may remain the best and safest option
