Network updates

Previously called Pin Points

In this section we share clinical and practice operations updates from Pinnacle and the wider health sector. Use the search box and filters to help find what you’re looking for.

Have an update you’d like to share? Email us.

COVID-19 vaccination onboarding simplified

Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ has released updated guidance for providers offering COVID-19 vaccination, including simplified onboarding, vaccine preparation and claiming arrangements from 1 July 2026. Practices interested in providing COVID-19 vaccination should contact their Regional Approver and ensure vaccinators complete the required IMAC training.

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EOI open for fully funded Te Ao Māori education

Pinnacle, in collaboration with Hauraki PHO and the National Health Coalition, is inviting Expressions of Interest for a fully funded, facilitator-supported Te Ao Māori learning opportunity for general practice teams. Places are limited to 50 participants, so submit your EOI early to register your interest.

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Nominations now open: Practice Management of the Year 2026

Help recognise the outstanding contribution of your Practice Manager or Practice Administrator by submitting a nomination for the Practice Management of the Year Award 2026. Nominations close on Sunday 16 August 2026 and can be submitted by anyone within the practice team.

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Ask Healthpoint: AI-powered health service navigation

Healthpoint has launched Ask Healthpoint, a new AI-powered tool that helps people find health and wellbeing services across Aotearoa New Zealand using natural language searches. Explore the new tool, share it with patients and whānau where appropriate, and download the clinic poster from the Healthpoint website.

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Information sharing and security awareness resources now available

The recording of the recent Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ Information Sharing and Security Awareness webinar is now available, alongside a new resource hub featuring practical guidance, quick reference guides and e-learning resources. Visit the webpage to access the webinar recording and support your team's information sharing and cyber security practices.

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Benzetacil replaces Bicillin during supply shortage

Due to a global shortage of Bicillin L-A, Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ is recommending Benzetacil as the alternative for most patients aged 14 years and over requiring rheumatic fever prophylaxis or syphilis treatment. Please order Benzetacil and 1% lidocaine diluent, reserve remaining Bicillin for priority groups, and refer to the clinical guidance before making the transition.

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Capitation re-weighting and capitation remittances from July 2026

From July 2026, capitation payments will reflect updated re-weighting factors agreed through the PSAAP funding offer, better aligning funding with patient need. Practices will continue to receive remittance advice through the Practice Portal, however demographic breakdowns will no longer be included in the capitation spreadsheet. If you have questions about your monthly capitation payments or require further detail about your capitation dataset, please contact the Practice Support team.

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Helping keep childhood immunisations on track this winter

Winter often sees childhood immunisation appointments postponed because tamariki have a mild illness or whānau are concerned about spending time in waiting rooms with other unwell people. Te Whatu ora Health New Zealand is reminding practices that a mild illness, such as a cough, cold or low-grade fever, is usually not a reason to delay immunisation. Read more and access the downloadable flyer here.

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