Because each Pegasus general practice operates as an independent business and the level of subsidy for each patient can vary, it is difficult to say for sure what you will expect to pay to see a GP or other member of a practice team in Christchurch.

GP visits in New Zealand are only partially subsidised, and the government subsidies are usually not enough to cover the cost of your practice delivering services to you, so you can expect to pay an additional fee. You may also pay extra for a nurse visit, blood tests, repeat prescriptions or other procedures or services.

Despite receiving a portion of government funding for some patients, your general practice is still a business like any other.

They need to make enough money to employ highly qualified doctors, nurses and staff and to cover the costs of running a thriving business – including making sure there is money left over to reinvest in resources and services.