Pharmac seeks feedback on proposal

Government drug-funding agency Pharmac is seeking feedback on changes it wants to make to its exceptional circumstances policy.

Its proposed scheme, Patient Pharmaceutical Assessment, would provide fairer and wider consideration for more patients to receive access to medication not considered for listing on the pharmaceutical schedule, chief executive Matthew Brougham said.

Currently, three exceptional circumstances schemes provided drug funding for patients in rare or unusual medical situations.

"Gaining the views of clinicians who will be working with the scheme, consumers with an interest in access to treatments and any other interested parties is crucial," Mr Brougham said.

Health Minister Tony Ryall announced the first phase of Pharmac's exceptional circumstances policy review in August 2010.

Pharmac received more than 70 submissions from stakeholders, which it used to develop its proposed changes.

Further consultation closes on March 25 and recommended changes will be made to the Pharmac board in June 2011.

- NZPA