Increased pharmaceutical investment benefits NZ patients

Increased pharmaceutical investment benefits NZ patients

Increased Government investment in pharmaceuticals over the past three years has undoubtedly benefited thousands of New Zealand patients, Medicines New Zealand General Manager Kevin Sheehy says.

“This increased investment in medicine shows the Government has prioritised the health of New Zealand people. There is however still a need for further investment before New Zealand patients’ access to medicines is truly world class.

“For the medicines that have been recently funded, there has been on average a three and a half year delay between Medsafe approval and PHARMAC funding.

“Advances in modern medicine are allowing people to stay well and live productive, fulfilling lives for longer, keeping them out of the hospital system which saves the public health system significant amounts of money and reduces the strain on in-patient services.”

Many innovative medicines are easier for patients to take and tolerate, being more effective and having fewer side effects.

“We believe smart decision making about providing high quality and effective medicines will enable better health outcomes for New Zealand,” Mr Sheehy adds.

“We look forward to the Government continuing to increase its investment in medicines to ensure New Zealand catches up with Australia and other similar countries in terms of access to new and innovative medicines and the health benefits they bring.”

ENDS

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