FAQs
If you’re a patient and your GP practice is merging with another, it’s completely reasonable to want clarity.
Access & Appointments
1. Will I still be able to see my usual GP/ Nurse practitioner (NP)?
We aim to keep continuity of care wherever possible. You may still be able to see your usual GP/NP, depending on availability. You may also be offered appointments with other members of our wider clinical team.
2. Will the phone number or website change?
Not yet. We will be keeping existing phone numbers active for a transition period. We will give you significant notice if we do change this in the future.
There may be some changes to phone numbers, online booking, or reception processes. We will keep you informed and make the transition as smooth as possible.
3. Will it be harder to get an appointment?
The goal is improved access through shared staffing. We are actively recruiting a Clinical Director, additional GPs and Nurse Practitioners and introducing more virtual GPs and Nurse Practitioners to support our on-site teams and decrease wait times for clinical care.
Registration & Records
4. Do I need to re-enrol?
No. If you are currently enrolled, your enrolment will automatically transfer. You do not need to do anything.
5. What happens to my medical records?
Records are securely merged. Privacy and confidentiality remains protected.
6. Will my prescriptions be affected?
Your repeat prescriptions will continue as usual. If there are any changes to the way you request prescriptions, we will let you know.
Staff & Services
7. Will any doctors or nurses leave?
Some staff changes can happen, but mergers are often intended to strengthen staffing stability.
8. Will services change?
No. Our intention is to improve services by:
- Increasing access to appointments
- Expanding our clinical team
- Offering a wider range of services where possible
- Covering leave and short term shortages becomes easier with a bigger team
Location & Facilities
9. Will the location change?
Our physical locations will remain the same initially. Some services and team members may move between sites to provide cover when needed and you may access different services and appointments at other locations if there is better availability.
Costs & Funding
10. Will fees change?
We will notify patients in advance if there are any changes to consultation fees. Our fees remain in line with standard general practice funding arrangements in New Zealand.
Confidentiality & Data Protection
11. Is my data still secure?
Yes. Your medical records will remain confidential and securely stored in line with New Zealand health privacy laws. They will transfer safely within our clinical system.
Continuity of Care
12. Will the quality of care change?
This change will help us provide more stable, sustainable services and improve access to care for our patients. Our goal is to strengthen general practice services in our community and ensure we can continue to meet your healthcare needs now and into the future.
When will this happen?
The merger will take effect from April 1st, 2026 and the patient databases will be merged on April 8th, 2026. From the 8th of April, your patient record will be available to the wider clinical team across both sites enabling better care delivery, no matter who your appointment is with. We will continue to share updates as plans progress.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have any concerns, please contact us by Email: reception@vercoebrown.co.nz
We understand that change can feel uncertain. Our priority remains providing safe, high-quality care for our community.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.