53270 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Associate Minister of Health

Written Question

Published date: 27 Nov 2025

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	53270 (2025)
Question asked:	13 Nov 2025
Member asking:	Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall
Portfolio:	Associate Minister of Health
Minister replying:	Hon David Seymour
Answer received:	23 Nov 2025
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_53270_2025
Document guid:	b6fa238c-5f97-4e93-a0a5-64064a7e05eb

53270 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Associate Minister of Health: What work, if any, has been undertaken by Pharmac to establish a horizon scanning function for new and emerging medicines?

Hon David Seymour: I am advised Pharmac has undertaken a discovery phase to explore what horizon scanning means for Pharmac and in the New Zealand context. This work is intended to inform a future approach that aligns with strategic priorities, regulatory requirements, and international best practice. Staff have engaged with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Medsafe, Health New Zealand, NGOs, and advocacy groups, and attended international forums hosted by the Australian Government and Medicines Australia. Pharmac are now considering next steps.