Prescription changes
January 26th, 2026
What is changing?
From 1 February 2026, some patients may be eligible to receive prescriptions valid for up to 12 months.
This change is part of a national update to prescribing rules and is designed to make it easier and more affordable for people with stable, long-term conditions to access their regular medications.
Things to know
At Upper Hutt Health Centre, your health and safety are always our top priority.
- Not everyone will be eligible for a longer prescription.
- An in-person review is required so your GP or Nurse Practitioner (NP) can confirm whether a 12-month prescription is safe and appropriate for you.
- Until this review takes place, prescriptions will continue on the usual 3-monthly basis.
Please note:
If you have other health concerns or multiple issues you would like to discuss at the same time, please book a double appointment.
Nothing has changed yet:
Until 1 February 2026, prescriptions will continue to be issued as they are now.
Will everyone get a 12-month prescription?
No. A 12-month prescription is not suitable for everyone.
Your GP or NP will decide what is safe and appropriate for you, based on:
- How stable your condition is
- Your medicines and monitoring needs
- Your overall health and circumstances
- Whether the medication is approved for 12-month prescribing
- Your willingness to attend a yearly, in-person review
What’s not included?
Some prescriptions are not eligible for this change, including:
- Controlled medications, such as opioids or stimulants
- Medicines taken only as needed
- Medications that require ongoing monitoring
- Situations where your condition or medication dose has changed recently
Your clinician will always determine what is safest and clinically appropriate for you.
For some people, a 6-month prescription may remain the best and safest option.
Why might I still need regular reviews?
Some medicines and conditions require ongoing checks to ensure:
- The medicine is working effectively
- The dose remains appropriate
- There are no side effects or safety concerns
Because of this, many prescriptions will still require planned reviews.
What’s not changing?
Even with a 12-month prescription:
- Pharmacies can only dispense up to 3 months of medication at a time
- You will receive repeats, not a full 12-month supply at once
We’re here to help
If you have questions or would like to know if you may be eligible, speak with your GP or NP at your next appointment about whether a 12-month prescription could be an option for you.