Accessing Medicines in New Zealand Through Named Patient Imports: A Case Analysis

This case analysis explores the persistent difficulties in accessing cutting-edge, life-saving medications in New Zealand, focusing on how Named Patient Imports serve as a vital lifeline for those in need. When local treatments are unaffordable or unavailable, this pathway offers patients an alternative to address their critical healthcare needs. Understanding the nuances of New Zealand’s named patient program is essential for both patients and healthcare providers navigating these challenges.

Barriers to Medicine Access in New Zealand

New Zealand faces significant hurdles in providing timely access to advanced medicines. Below are some concerning insights into this issue:

1. Limited Funding for Modern Medicines:
   According to research by Medicines NZ, New Zealand ranks lowest among OECD nations in terms of access to modern medicines. Between 2010-2020, only a fraction of newly introduced drugs for conditions like cancer, rare diseases, and mental health received public funding.
2. Lagging Behind High-Income Nations:
   A study from the London School of Economics highlighted that New Zealand approves fewer cancer medications compared to similar nations, despite using comparable evaluation criteria.
3. Slow Approval Timelines:
   On average, the country takes twice as long as its peers to fund modern treatments, leaving many patients with serious conditions like cancer, diabetes, and rare disorders without affordable options.

These statistics reflect a pressing issue for patients and healthcare advocates. As Dr. Chris Jackson, an oncologist at the University of Otago, stated: “New Zealand has traditionally been slower to fund most drugs than other countries.” Similarly, Dr. Graeme Jarvis from Medicines New Zealand noted that delays in approving proven medications create significant uncertainty for patients.

Amid these obstacles, the Named Patient Import program has become a crucial solution, enabling patients to access treatments otherwise unavailable in New Zealand.

Named Patient Imports: A Solution for Treatment Gaps

The Named Patient Import program has been a key enabler for New Zealanders to access essential medications. With the introduction of the Therapeutic Products Act in 2023, this program continues to support patients who cannot rely on publicly funded options. Key highlights include:

• Historical Context:
  Under the 1981 Medicines Act, healthcare providers could import unapproved medicines for a named patient when no suitable local options were available.
• Regulatory Evolution:
  In 2022, the proposed Therapeutic Products Bill initially raised concerns about restricting patients’ ability to import more affordable alternatives to authorized medicines. However, after receiving significant feedback, the bill was amended to offer greater flexibility, ensuring patients could still access life-saving treatments.
• The Revised Framework:
  Passed in July 2023, the Therapeutic Products Act allows healthcare practitioners to prescribe unapproved medicines if no authorized alternative is suitable, accessible, or affordable. This regulatory framework ensures continued access to innovative and affordable treatments for patients in need.

The Act is set to be fully implemented by September 2026, with ongoing preparations to establish the necessary rules and regulations.

Real Stories: The Impact of Named Patient Access

Theresa from Gisborne, New Zealand, faced a dire diagnosis of Stage 4 Lung Cancer in mid-2022. The recommended treatment, while effective, was prohibitively expensive at $10,000 per month. Through the Named Patient Import program, Theresa sourced a generic version of the medicine for $1,000 per month, allowing her to afford the treatment.

Her fight didn’t end there. When the original wording of the Therapeutic Products Bill threatened her ability to import medicines, she led a petition garnering over 5,000 signatures. Her advocacy resulted in critical amendments to the bill, preserving the program for herself and others in similar situations.

Theresa’s story underscores the life-saving potential of Named Patient Imports and highlights the resilience of patients navigating systemic barriers.

Conclusion

The Named Patient Import program is a cornerstone of healthcare for many New Zealanders, offering access to essential treatments amid significant gaps in public funding. While reforms to improve the availability of modern medicines are crucial, this program remains a beacon of hope for underserved patient populations.

At Medspartner, we specialize in facilitating named patient imports, helping individuals worldwide access medicines not available in their countries. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can support your healthcare journey.