Media Statement
For immediate release
Thursday, 1 September 2005

Turner welcomes medical support

United Future deputy leader Judy Turner today welcomed the Medicines Industry Association’s effective backing of United Future’s stance on an independent review of Pharmac’s operations.

“United Future has been calling for months for better access to new medicines based on medical needs rather than Pharmac cost cutting and we’re delighted to see the association’s Dr Pippa MacKay calling for the same thing,” Mrs Turner said.

A survey this week revealed 68 percent support for a review of Pharmac.

“Pharmac is far too focused on government penny-pinching rather than actually providing Kiwis with the medicines they need, and frankly it’s a false economy.

“Again Dr MacKay is absolutely right: appropriate medicines needs to be seen as investment rather than expense.

“Early treatment and medication cuts more expensive health interventions further down the track when someone’s condition has deteriorated.

“There needs to be a far more rational and holistic approach to health in this country - and yes, Pharmac is largely part of the problem than the solution at the moment,” Mrs Turner said.

ENDS

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