Pharmac will fund new treatments for five health conditions, including several cancer drugs, from 1 March 2025, increasing access to vital medicines for patients across New Zealand.
Associate Health Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown welcomed the decision, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to expanding treatment options and improving patient outcomes.
Seymour said the changes have been made possible by the $604 million funding boost from the government, which is helping Pharmac fund more medicines for more people.
“Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the government,” Seymour said.
“Today represents another step forward for cancer patients as the $604 million uplift continues to facilitate access to new treatments.”
New medicines and expanded access
Pharmac’s decision includes funding for the following medicines:
- Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and bevacizumab (Vegzelma) – expanded access for liver cancer that cannot be removed by surgery.
- Bevacizumab (Vegzelma) – widened access for advanced ovarian cancer.
- Bevacizumab (Vegzelma) – funding for a new brand of the drug.
- Lanreotide – funding for neuroendocrine cancers, bowel blockages caused by cancer, and acromegaly (a growth disorder).
Seymour said the latest announcement reflects Pharmac’s ability to respond to patient needs when given the support it requires.
“The early signs of Pharmac’s redirection remain positive, as expanding opportunities and access for patients and their families continue to be prioritised,” he said.
“I’m pleased to see Pharmac’s responsiveness to the voices of patients and their families by expanding access to more medicines for more groups. This decision reflects our commitment to a more adaptable and patient-centered approach.”
Health Minister Simeon Brown said that faster and better access to cancer treatments is a key priority for the government, which has made cancer care one of its five key health targets.
“As Minister of Health, I am focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare. That means ensuring better access to more cancer medicines, better cancer management driven by our faster cancer treatment target, and earlier detection of cancers through screening programmes,” Brown said.
The government said progress is already being made, with more cancer patients receiving their first treatment within 31 days in the first financial quarter compared to the previous quarter.
Seymour added that a world-class health system requires world-class medicines and said the government would continue to push for better access to life-saving treatments.
