Statement on access to contraception in Aotearoa New Zealand
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) has reiterated its support for access to contraception, in the wake of comments on reinstating fees for contraception prescriptions in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The $5 fee for prescriptions, including contraception, is scheduled to be abolished in July as part of measures included in the 2023 Budget.
Dr Susan Fleming, Chair of RANZCOG’s New Zealand committee Te Kāhui Oranga ō Nuku, said: “The recent threat of reversing this decision is a huge concern. RANZCOG strongly believes that investment in women’s health adds real value to the community. Removal of any barrier to access to contraception or reproductive health services is a move in the right direction, and reinstating fees for contraception would be a step backwards.”
RANZCOG is looking forward to the Women’s Health Strategy, expected to be released in July after Ministry of Health consultation.
For media enquiries
Catherine Cooper
Head of Aotearoa New Zealand Office
021 137 0748
ccooper@ranzcog.org.nz