About this course: This foundational eLearning module is designed to support general practice teams across Aotearoa New Zealand to understand the role, value, and implementation of patient portals in primary care.

Estimated time to complete: Approximately 30–40 minutes

Patient portals aren’t new, but they’re more important than ever. As general practices continue to evolve under models of care  digital tools like patient portals remain vital to delivering proactive, equitable, and person-centred care.

While patient portals have been part of the healthcare landscape for over a decade, their relevance continues to grow. In today’s environment of evolving models of care—like Pou Ora | Pillars of Health and Health Care Home—portals are no longer a digital add-on. They are essential tools for delivering sustainable, proactive, and whānau-centred care.

This course introduces the concept of patient portals and explores the benefits they offer patients, clinicians, and practice operations. Through engaging content and real-life examples, learners will discover how portals improve self-management, enable timely access to information, and streamline administrative tasks. The course also highlights key considerations around privacy, consent, and equity—ensuring that all patients, regardless of background or digital literacy, can benefit.

You’ll gain insights into how portals support preventative care, reduce clinician workload, and improve the overall efficiency and experience of primary care. The module also includes a case study that shows how digital prescription processes can reduce administrative burden and enhance team workflows.

Whether your practice is new to patient portals or looking to optimise existing use, this course provides a strong foundation to build from.

This is the first of two courses. Course 2 (coming soon) will focus on deeper workflow integration, whānau engagement, and practical strategies for implementation and improvement.

Start your learning today and help shape a more connected, efficient, and equitable future for general practice.