Media release from Capital and Coast DHB

Capital & Coast DHB are reducing barriers to healthcare for parents of children under six by making visits to their doctor or nurse in this region free for under-sixes during business hours at your regular practice, and after hours at three nominated clinics across the region.

From 1 July 2012 all children under six who need medical care will get it for free, regardless of the time of day. Capital and Coast District Health Board have worked alongside Compass Primary Healthcare Network, Cosine PHO, Ora Toa PHO and Well Health PHO to ensure that whether it's during working hours or not, children under six will get the health care they need without additional costs for their parents.

"When kids are unwell, it's important that they get medical treatment quickly," said Dr Andrew Marshall, Clinical Leader Paediatrics, Capital & Coast District Health Board, "Children under six can be especially susceptible to illnesses and can deteriorate quickly so it's important that they get the right care, at the right time and in the right place; during the day that means your GP practice as they know you best and after hours there are three clinics across our district in Wellington, Porirua and Kapiti."

"For a GP in the community it's important that I know that my patients can get the care they need when my practice isn't open," said Dr Larry Jordan, Community GP, "Having free urgent after hours care for kids under six helps the whole community by improving access to high quality healthcare"

All General Practices in the district now offer free care for enrolled children under six, to make sure you and your children are enrolled speak to your general practice. Free urgent care after hours for children under six is available from the following practices

• Wellington Accident and Urgent Medical Centre, 17 Adelaide Road, Newtown ph 04 384 4944

• Kenepuru Accident and Medical, Kenepuru Hospital, ph 04 918 2300

• Team Medical, Coastlands Mall, State Highway 1, Kapiti ph 04 297 3000

If you're not sure if your child needs to see a doctor call Healthline (0800 611 116). Healthline provides free medical advice 24 hours a day.