Patients who have been waiting more than 120 days for an appointment or treatment will be receiving a text message, then a personal phone call to verify whether they still wish to proceed with their appointment or treatment for which they are waitlisted.

This work is expected to take approximately one month, with a team of people looking to contact up to 1,000 patients per day.

The validation project aims to streamline wait lists by removing any unnecessary referrals for appointments or planned care, merging any duplicate bookings, and ensuring the patient information on file is correct, with the goal of reducing overall wait times for those still requiring care.

This process will also be used as an opportunity to confirm the general practice people are registered with and update their contact information, including email addresses, to allow for faster direct communications with Health NZ. 

These details are stored in the South Island Patient Information Care System (SI-PICS) secure database, which holds healthcare information for people who live in Te Waipounamu.

The project does not include patients who are already booked for appointments or care, those who have been recently contacted by Health NZ, patients who have been waiting less than 120 days for an appointment or treatment.

What is the waitlist validation process?

What is the waitlist validation process?

Health New Zealand checks that people on a waiting list for an appointment or treatment still want to go ahead. This helps reduce unnecessary appointments and improves healthcare delivery.

Why did I get a text message from Health New Zealand?

Why did I get a text message from Health New Zealand?

You received this because you’re on a Health New Zealand waiting list at a South Island hospital. We’re confirming whether you still need your appointment.

Is this message real or a scam?

Is this message real or a scam?

It’s real. The message is from Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. It’s a “do not reply” text letting you know we’ll call you about your treatment.

What information will Health New Zealand ask for?

What information will Health New Zealand ask for?
  • To confirm if you still need the appointment surgery or procedure
  • Are you contact details correct, including:
    • Full name
    • Date of birth
    • Home address
    • GP name
    • Email address

Why do you need my personal details?

Why do you need my personal details?

We use this information to confirm your identity and update your records. Your details are kept confidential and only used for your care.

What if I no longer need my appointment?

What if I no longer need my appointment?

Tell us when we call. We’ll remove you from the waitlist and notify your GP.

Not sure if you still need it?

Not sure if you still need it?

Tell us when we call. A clinician may review your case to help decide.

What if I still need my appointment?

What if I still need my appointment?

Let us know during the call. Your place on the waitlist will stay the same.

I’m on more than one waitlist—will I get multiple messages?

I’m on more than one waitlist—will I get multiple messages?

Possibly. We aim to cover all your referrals in one call, but you may get more than one message.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Contact your local hospital if you need help or have concerns.