ProCare welcomes Pharmac’s announcement to improve
access to some asthma inhalers and long-acting
contraceptives from 1 August. The changes represent a
significant step forward in supporting equitable,
patient-centred primary care across Aotearoa.
The
changes will impact funded treatments,
including:
- combination inhalers branded as
Symbicort Turbuhaler, DuoResp Spiromax, and
Vannair - long-acting contraceptives branded as
Mirena, Jaydess, and Jadelle.
From next month,
patients will be able to receive a three-month supply of the
inhalers at once, and these, along with the long-acting
contraceptives will be stocked in general practices for the
first time.
This change will reduce the need for
people to visit their pharmacy to pick up their prescription
and mean people can learn how to use their inhalers and
collect them at the same time, rather than returning for a
follow-up.
Bindi Norwell, Chief Executive at ProCare
sees the decision as a win for increasing accessibility to
treatment and for efficiency of work in primary
care.
“Reducing barriers to get timely access to
treatment, especially for people managing chronic conditions
like asthma means our health care professionals can help
them get better health outcomes sooner.
“However, we
do want to sound a warning to members of the public around
the IUD insertions. As per Medical Council requirements, GPs
are required to ensure that patients are informed and have
time to ask questions before giving their consent to any
procedure. Patients may need to book a double or triple
appointment depending on the treatment chosen.
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Mihi
Blair, Kaiwhakahaere Hauora Māori (General Manager – Māori
Health and Equity) at ProCare believes these changes will
mean the support provided to patients can be done more
equitably.
“For Māori, Pacific peoples, and those
living in rural areas, easier access to essential treatments
can make a real difference to their health. It’s
encouraging to see Pharmac responding to the needs of our
communities.”
ProCare supports aligning medicine
access with clinical guidelines and responding to how we can
improve patient experience. The changes will help streamline
care delivery, reduce administrative burden, and empower
clinicians to provide timely, effective
treatment.
“We look forward to working with our
practices to implement these changes smoothly and ensure
patients are informed and supported,” says
Norwell.
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