From 14 October, Pharmac is expanding funded access to cancer medicines for eligible adolescents and young adults with cancers that commonly occur in childhood.
The change means eligible young people with paediatric-origin cancers will be able to access funded medicines regardless of whether they are being treated through a paediatric or adult cancer service. Previously, access could differ depending on where a young person received their care.
The change is expected to benefit around 15 adolescents and young adults each year and includes cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), as well as a number of paediatric-origin solid tumours.
To be eligible, patients need to meet Health New Zealand’s criteria for adolescent and young adult cancer services and be receiving treatment using a paediatric-based protocol.
Read more about the change on the Pharmac website. below
