Dear Health New Zealand,

Pursuant to the Official Information Act 1982, I am requesting information relating to the funding of blood tests and regional variations in access across New Zealand. Specifically, I seek:

An explanation for why Health New Zealand’s funding of blood testing differs between regions. This appears to result in a "postcode lottery" effect for patients depending on their location.

The reason for charges being applied to standard Vitamin D (25-OH) tests in the Waikato region, when ordered by a general practitioner. Is this standard practice, and how does it compares to other regions?

A copy of any discussions, summaries, meeting minutes, policy documents, or reports from the past 5 years that relate to decisions by any Technical Advisory Group, Management Group, or other relevant body within Health New Zealand regarding:

The funding for Vitamin D-25 OH blood tests; and

The criteria or requirements for GPs to request specific tests under public funding. Please break down by region.

A description of the funding framework used by Health New Zealand for determining eligibility and coverage for these blood tests ordered through general practice, including any formal guidelines in place. Please supply the supporting evidence provided to such groups.

The total public funding allocated for Vitamin D 25-OH blood tests in the most recent full financial year, broken down by region.

If any part of this request requires clarification or refinement to ensure it falls within the scope of the Act, I would be happy to assist.

Yours faithfully,

Julie Armstrong