COVID-19 Business Information and FAQs

PNZ is continuing to monitor COVID-19 updates to provide members with information for physiotherapy businesses as it becomes available. Answers to some frequently asked questions are below as well as links to business-related COVID-19 information. Please also check the PNZ COVID-19 web page as there may be additional links relevant to your business.


COVID-19 Business Support

Updated November 2022

Government information on COVID-19 for businesses is available at business.govt.nz, including a summary of financial support. Inland Revenue have also identified help for your business during the COVID-19 Omicron outbreak and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) have general advice on managing the impact of COVID-19 cases at your business.


Frequently Asked Questions

PNZ continues to monitor updates to provide members with the latest COVID-19 information. We are following national and international best practice and encourage members to be aware of Government information sources.

The PNZ website has links to shared resources, including MBIE and Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health (MoH). While our website is being updated regularly, please be aware that the latest information is on the Government pages.

Answers to physiotherapy specific questions are below. We will continue to add to these where helpful, noting that the answers each have a review date.

What is the curent advice about masks?

  • As of 12 September 2022 the Government has removed the COVID-19 Protection Framework and most COVID-19 rules have ended in New Zealand.
  • You must still isolate for 7 days if you have COVID-19 and wear a face mask in healthcare facilities. As noted on the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health (MoH) website
    • "Masks are required when visiting certain healthcare facilities like hospitals, GPs, pharmacies and aged residential care facilities.
    • Some places like workplaces or a marae may ask people to wear a mask.
    • Masks are strongly recommended for household contacts when leaving home.
    • Read guidance on face masks for the public and for health and disability care workers."
  • Answer reviewed 20 October 2022.

Can physiotherapists require a patient to wear a mask as a condition of providing treatment to the patient?

  • Yes. The government advice for people at Alert Level 2 is “wear a mask in situations where physical distancing is not possible”. Physiotherapy treatment will fit that category therefore recommending wearing a mask is recommended.
  • Treatment at Alert Level 3 is only for urgent care and PPE including masks is required.
  • Answer reviewed 13 August 2020.

If the patient refuses to wear a mask, can the therapist refuse to provide treatment?

  • Yes. Under the Physiotherapy Code of Ethics 4.5 a Physiotherapist can refuse to treat a patient if they have good reasons. The patient should be informed of the reasons; offered alternative options of care, such as telehealth or can be referred to another healthcare provider.
  • Answer reviewed 13 August 2020.

What cleaning product should I be using in my clinics?

  • The Ministry of Health advice on cleaning following a probable COVID case is here. Any hospital grade detergent/disinfectant is suitable. MoH recommend a 2-in-1 (cleaning and disinfectant) to increase efficiency.
  • Answer reviewed 12 August 2020.

Where can I get PPE, including masks?

  • Your usual supplier should be able to provide PPE including hand sanitiser and masks. The Ministry of Health have requested you only contact them if you cannot access your own supply. Note: surgical masks are recommended for most physiotherapy treatment. Aerosol generating procedures may require a fitted N95 mask. Such procedures should only be done in the DHB setting for if COVID-19 infection is suspected.
  • Answer reviewed 13 August 2020.

What happens if a Physio or one of my staff is thought to have COVID?

  • The Ministry of Health has provided a guidance document detailing the steps healthcare workers and their employers need to take for a staff member who has COVID-19.
  • Answer reviewed 1 November 2022.

    Page updated November 2022