Pharmac asks for feedback

Pharmac is asking for feedback on a range of options for improving its "customer participation".

A discussion document issued on Friday lists seven options which could provide more information to consumers or change the way the Government drug-buyer operates.

"We already have a range of mechanisms and activities for people to participate in our work," acting chief executive Steffan Crausaz said.

"These range from taking part in our campaigns that encourage people to make the best use of funded medicine, to giving us feedback in consultation or through the advice of our Consumer Advisory Committee."

He said the document was part of Pharmac's continuing efforts to improve how it engaged with consumers.

The seven options were:

- A patient reference guide

- A quarterly consumer-specific newsletter

- Occasional papers

- Regular consumer meetings

- Consumer comment on Pharmacology and Therapeutics Advisory Committee recommendations

- Retrospective consumer audits

- Consumer involvement in the prioritisation process.

Submitters could also suggest their own ideas, Mr Crausaz said.

Pharmac announced the document's release at a forum attended by organisations including Arthritis NZ, the Cancer Foundation and Diabetes NZ.

Arthritis NZ chief executive Sandra Kirby said Pharmac had been taking steps to become more accessible.

"The feeling at that meeting was that Pharmac has moved a long way from its position two years ago and is more open to feedback. While there is still room to go, this is another step in that [direction]."

Consultation on the document closes on December 4.

- NZPA