June 02, 2022
Pharmac told to improve Māori response
Health Minister Andrew Little wants the government drug buying agency Pharmac to collaborate and coordinate with other health sector bodies, including the new Maori Health Authority.
Mr Little yesterday unveiled the Government’s response to the independent Pharmac Review panel.
He says it needs to have a much greater focus on improving the health of Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled people and other groups who do not yet share equitably in the benefits it provides.
He says many Maori struggle to have trust in the health system, including Pharmac.
“What they can expect from this report and this Government’s decisions in relation to it is much better decision making that takes account of their needs and therefore improves their access to treatments,” Mr Little says.
He says many of the recommendations are addressed in the Pae Ora Bill transforming the health system.