This is the text extract for Notification of proposal relating to Baxter Healthcare’s IV and irrigation fluids, browse documents here.

30 October 2009

Proposal relating to Baxter Healthcare’s IV and irrigation fluids

PHARMAC has approved a proposal to amend the listing of a number of intravenous (IV) fluids supplied by Baxter Healthcare, and list a number of new irrigation fluids, from 1 November 2009.

Detail PHARMAC ran an RFP for irrigation and IV fluids. We received a proposal from Baxter Healthcare that involved listing a number of new irrigation fluids and increased prices for a number of IV fluids used in DHB Hospitals, and subsequently reached an agreement with Baxter Healthcare for these products. This proposal was the subject of a consultation letter dated 25 September 20091. The proposal was approved with no amendments. Feedback Received We appreciate all the feedback we received during consultation and acknowledge the time people took to respond. All consultation responses received were considered in their entirety prior to making a decision on the proposal. Consultation responses raised a couple of issues. Some DHBs suggested alternative strengths and sizes for some of the products, and there was some comment about the increase in costs the proposal represents. The agreement provides DHBs with pricing security for at least the next 3 years on the Baxter products, and does not prevent DHBs purchasing other products, or other brands of the Baxter products. PHARMAC intends to seek agreements with other suppliers in this market over coming months. More information If you have any queries about these changes please contact the PHARMAC helpline on 0800 66 00 50 (9 am to 5 pm weekdays).

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Letter can be found at http://www.pharmac.govt.nz/2009/09/25/