Questions About NZ Healthcare (Immigrating Type I Diabetic)

[Dreamshot]

Just got a job offer in Auckland, NZ from an "accredited employer" and am strongly leaning toward accepting. This is a permanent position. I would be moving from the US.

Thus, I will be applying for a "Work to Residence: Accredited Employer" visa. Then, after two years, I plan to apply for a residence class visa.
I have question about heath care: from what I understand, I would be covered under the NZ public health system because my work visa would be valid for more than two years (i.e. this is a permanent position).

I am a Type I Diabetic who is in good health. Based on my research, obtaining insulin doesn't appear to be the hard part. I am a bit more concerned about diabetic supplies; I use an insulin pump that requires sets/reservoirs. I see that Pharmac NZ has an agreement with Medtronic, my pump supplier. In theory, the supplies I need should be available in NZ.

Would this (the supplies) be an out-of-pocket expense; or, would a GP prescribe the necessary items (i.e. pump infusion sets, reservoirs, etc.) and I could get them free/little charge?

Any thoughts greatly appreciated!

[JandM]

I have question about heath care: from what I understand, I would be covered under the NZ public health system because my work visa would be valid for more than two years (i.e. this is a permanent position).

That's right.

From this website http://www.diabetes.org.nz/products/insulin_pumps it seems the Animas pump is subsidised by the NZ health service (i.e. supplied at small charge), whereas other brands would be charged at full price. (You could ask your medical practitioner if you would be likely to experience a big change if you were to change brands, perhaps.)

[Dreamshot]

Thanks for your quick reply!

My current supplier is Medtronic. Could you comment on an immigrants ability to be covered under PHARMAC?

See: http://www.medtronic-diabetes.co.nz/...nded/index.htm

[JandM]

Given what Pharmac is http://www.pharmac.health.nz/about/, I think the link you've found is authoritatively saying you should be able to get the Medtronic products they mention. Your link must have come after the one I found!

Being an immigrant has no bearing on this. If you are entitled to be treated by the NZ Health Service, you have the same access to all its services as any NZ national.