In the new National-led coalition government, Act Party Leader and Epsom MP Hon David Seymour also holds an Associate Minister of Health portfolio. His specific responsibilities are Pharmac and Medsafe and, after reading CHPNZ’s Briefing to the Incoming Minister, invited CE Scott Milne and Chair Abs Saadi to his Parliamentary Office at the Beehive to meet with him and officials to hear the advice and concerns of CHPNZ’s membership.
Scott Milne said the Minister was enthusiastic about his new portfolio, particularly the clauses in the coalition agreement which require Medsafe to approve new pharmaceuticals “…within 30 days of them being approved by at least two overseas regulatory agencies recognised by New Zealand.” In addition, the Minister has announced the return of pseudoephedrine to a pharmacy-only medicine by the coming winter. The Minister was also pleased to hear of the closer working relationship between CHPNZ and regulator Medsafe.
Minister Seymour said he was looking forward to giving the key note speech at the 2024 CHPNZ AGM later this year and CHPNZ would regularly stay in touch with his office on CHPNZ announcements and events. Act health spokesperson, Todd Stephenson MP, will also assist Minister Seymour. Todd came to Parliament from a career in Pharmaceuticals.
CHPNZ will now be seeking subsequent meetings, on Minister Seymour’s recommendation, with the Minister of Health, Hon Dr Shane Reti, particularly to discuss the CHPNZ Self-Care initiative and how its promotion would assist in lowering the pressure on local GPs and hospital emergency departments. With the coalition government’s repeal of the Therapeutic Products Act 2023, CHPNZ will also be reaching out to Hon Casey Costello. As Associate Minister of Health responsible for the replacement legislation, CHPNZ will provide advice to her and her officials on content for a new Act, including workable options for members and for the safe and effective health and wellbeing of New Zealanders.
