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Drugs, devices and diagnostics | Government Documents

Update on cancer drug Keytruda access

6 Aug 2024

Te Whatu Ora | Ministry of Health

Health New Zealand is moving forward implementation planning to ensure a small group of cancer patients can take advantage of free early access to the drug Keytruda shortly ahead of Pharmac starting to fund the medication.

Work has been underway for national implementation in seven weeks’ time with Pharmac due to start funding the drug from 1 October.

Further advice from Health NZ clinicians has confirmed we could manage the small number of patients concerned ahead of 1 October.

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Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.