What policy changes, if any, have occurred in the Minister’s departments, agencies, crown entities and any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, following the Cabinet directive on 13 September 2024 that 'public services should be prioritised on the basis of need, not race'?

Answer

I am advised that Pharmac continues to use data and evidence to inform its decision making. Some amendments have been made to relevant policies to reflect the requirements of the directive following discussion by the Senior Leadership Team and the Board. These changes relate to how Pharmac works to achieve the purposes of the authorising legislation (Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022). These policy changes include: - Access criteria policy - Approach to meningococcal vaccines - Consideration of the Factors for Consideration - Equity policy.