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IMG Support for living and working in Aotearoa New Zealand
Moving to practise in Aotearoa New Zealand
Immigration New Zealand provides detailed information on work permits, residency requirements, and the qualifications needed to work in New Zealand.
New Zealand Visa requirements.
Further information to answer your questions about moving to practise in New Zealand.
Finding hospital employment in Aotearoa New Zealand
Both New Zealand’s big cities and rural heartland offer many opportunities for doctors. Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand is the best place to start looking for short-term (locum) or permanent vacancies. Te Whatu Ora often advertises these jobs directly on its website. Alternatively, you can find work through a recruitment agency.
The following bodies and websites may also assist those seeking employment in a hospital in New Zealand:
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Website of the New Zealand Ministry of Health has a careers section.
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New Zealand Now (Immigration NZ) ensures you don’t miss out on valuable information about living in New Zealand, including job opportunities.
Aotearoa New Zealand Healthcare System overview
The Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora is the lead advisor to the government on health and makes sure the health system is delivering to meet the current and future needs of New Zealanders. This is the body that administers laws, regulating health providers and products.
Pharmaceutical Management Agency
The Aotearoa New Zealand Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC) is the government agency that decides which pharmaceuticals to publicly fund in New Zealand. Funding decisions are listed in the Pharmaceutical Schedule.
Accident Compensation Corporation
All New Zealand residents and visitors are provided comprehensive, 24 hour, no fault personal injury cover by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). Cover includes medical and surgical treatment, rehabilitation and compensation. The ability to sue for personal injury covered by the ACC is waived in return.
ACC is governed by the Accident Compensation Act 2001.
Personal injury covered by the ACC scheme is funded through levies paid by businesses, motor vehicle owners and employees.
Medical indemnity insurance in Aotearoa New Zealand
Due to the no‑fault Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) scheme which covers most personal injuries, including treatment injuries caused by medical care, in Aotearoa New Zealand medical indemnity insurance has a distinct purpose compared with countries that rely on malpractice lawsuits. Medical indemnity insurance focuses on legal defence, professional accountability, and income protection.
Private health insurance in Aotearoa New Zealand
Private health insurance gives the advantage of being able to choose a healthcare professional and allows insured individuals more control over when and where they are treated.