The following information relates to PracSuite users in New Zealand:

Effective from 1st October 2024, all SMS messages sent to New Zealand numbers through PracSuite will automatically include the following statement at the end of each message: “Standard SMS charges apply to reply.”

This ensures compliance with New Zealand regulations.

Message Length: The addition of this phrase may increase the length of your SMS messages, which could result in using additional SMS credits if the message exceeds the standard character limit. Please note that since our system cannot determine whether your SMS template will be used for New Zealand numbers, the estimated character count will not include the characters added by this required statement. It will only be appended at the time of sending.

Patient Impact: While most mobile phone users in New Zealand have SMS included in their plans, some may be on plans that charge for replying to messages. This change ensures that all recipients are aware of potential costs when responding.

No action is required from you, as this change will be applied automatically. However, we recommend reviewing your SMS templates to account for the additional characters, which could affect message length or credit usage.

Due to legislation aimed at combating spam SMS in New Zealand, businesses must apply for a 'short code' to send commercial SMS in New Zealand, which has high setup costs and ongoing monthly fees.

Rather than removing all SMS functionality for New Zealand customers, Smartsoft has chosen to bear the cost of the short code on behalf of our users. However, there will be some restrictions to comply with the law.

SMS functions will only be available for appointment reminders, follow-ups, and ad-hoc correspondence of a clinical nature. Sending marketing SMS to New Zealand numbers is prohibited in PracSuite.

Further, the bulk SMS messaging function derived from a patient list in a report and customised SMS Sender IDs will no longer be available.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause; however, these changes are necessary to protect the integrity of the SMS channel and ensure compliance with New Zealand law.