![\"Bottles](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/4NTIK1S_copyright_image_154284.jpeg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\nPhoto: 123RF\n<\/p>\n
Twelve-month prescriptions for long-term medications take effect from Sunday.<\/p>\n
Patients can now get a script for up to 12 months of medication<\/a> – up from three – with their doctor’s permission.<\/p>\n People with 12-month prescriptions will still need to collect their medication every three months, so the changes will not reduce their overall number of visits.<\/p>\n Pharmacists remain concerned<\/a>. Some have previously told RNZ that explaining the changes, and getting used to a new system, will only add to their already heavy workload when staff are in short supply.<\/p>\n Gemma Perry-Waterhouse, who owns Sanders Pharmacy in Te Awamutu, said a shortage of pharmacists would make explaining the new system while keeping up with other responsibilities challenging.<\/p>\n “There has been a decline in the number of pharmacies in New Zealand, and there’s a serious workforce issue. We don’t have enough pharmacists.<\/p>\n “We are concerned about this rollout and how much time it will take to explain to all patients what to expect with 12-month scripts; the fact that it isn’t for everyone, that their doctor needs to decide that.<\/p>\n “Be kind to your pharmacy if you’re popping in to talk about a 12-month script and what to expect, because we’re all under a lot of pressure at the moment.”<\/p>\n