Next stage of Pharmac improvement programme underway

The Timely Assessment Programme (TAP) marks the next phase of Pharmac’s organisation-wide improvement work.

The programme will be delivered over the next four years and build on the progress made through the Reset Programme and the Consumer and Patient Working Group, which concluded at the end of June.

Director Strategy, Policy & Performance, Michael Johnson says TAP is about turning recent improvements into lasting change.

“We are excited to launch this next phase, which builds on the momentum achieved through the Reset Programme and the work of the Consumer and Patient Working Group,” says Johnson.

"The programme aims to support quicker and more predictable funding assessment processes, improve transparency, and make engagement with Pharmac easier for patients, whānau and applicants.”

TAP will be delivered through a dedicated Programme Delivery Office, which has been established to coordinate improvement efforts across Pharmac. It sits alongside other key initiatives, including upgrades to Pharmac’s data and digital infrastructure, a review of the Exceptional Circumstances Framework, and redevelopment of the Pharmaceutical Schedule.”

The programme’s initial focus will be on improving Pharmac’s advice and assessment processes. This work will be shaped by feedback from consumer and patient advocates, staff, and suppliers and will include targeted improvements to both medicines and medical device processes.

Key priorities include reducing the backlog of older funding applications, introducing clear and consistent assessment timeframes, and making it easier for people to engage with Pharmac when they make applications.

A new independent consumer advisory function will be created to make sure that the voices of patients, consumers and their families continue to be at the heart of Pharmac’s decision-making.