New Zealand Expands Nurse Prescribing Powers, Nearly Doubling Available Medicines

Significant Expansion in Healthcare Access

Registered nurse prescribers in New Zealand have seen a substantial expansion of their prescribing powers, with the addition of 211 new medicines to their formulary. This change, authorised by the Director-General of Health and effective from December 4, 2025, nearly doubles the number of treatments registered nurses can issue, building on the over 240 medicines they could previously prescribe. The move is set to significantly enhance access to timely and local healthcare across the country.

Addressing Common and Chronic Conditions

The newly authorised medicines cover a broad spectrum of common and long-term health conditions. These include treatments for ailments such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and other respiratory conditions, menopause symptoms, and various common infections. This expansion allows nurses to manage a wider range of patient needs without requiring immediate intervention from a doctor, thereby streamlining care pathways.

Government's Vision for an Efficient Health System

Health Minister Simeon Brown highlighted the government's commitment to improving community healthcare. 'Improving access to healthcare in communities is a key priority for the Government. These changes will mean people can get the medicines they need more quickly, with fewer delays and better continuity of care,' Mr. Brown stated. The initiative aims to alleviate the burden on overstretched general practitioners and is expected to be particularly beneficial in rural and underserved communities, where access to medical professionals can often involve long wait times or extensive travel.

Part of Broader Healthcare Reforms

This expansion for registered nurse prescribers, who currently number approximately 1,570 across New Zealand, is part of a wider government strategy to enhance medicine access and healthcare efficiency. The reforms also include an expansion of prescribing rights for pharmacist prescribers, who will see their list grow by 20 additional medicines, and changes allowing podiatrists to prescribe certain medications. Furthermore, from February 1, 2026, some patients on stable long-term medications will be able to receive prescriptions lasting up to 12 months, further reducing costs and improving treatment consistency. The changes reflect the advanced education, training, and clinical expertise of these health professionals, empowering them to work at the top of their scope to deliver better, faster care.