June 02, 2022
Pharmac fix must target inequities


National Party health spokesperson Shane Reti says it’s time for Pharmac to address inequities in the health system.
The Government has released its response to the recommendations of an independent review of the drug buying agency.
The Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Bill will require Pharmac to work more closely with other health entities and to enable greater consumer participation in its work.
There’s also an increased focus on equity in health outcomes, particularly for Māori and the Pacific.
Dr Reti says that’s something the health select committee has called for.
“Clearly the report shows, fundamentally it says, Pharmac has increased inequities for Māori, so we are looking to see those recommendations address that with some urgency,” he says.