This is the text extract for Consultation to change dispensing rules for pregnancy tests. Closed, browse documents here.

10 December 2009

Proposal to amend the dispensing rules for pregnancy tests

PHARMAC is seeking feedback on a proposal to change the way in which subsidised pregnancy tests are made available to clinicians. PHARMAC proposes to amend the restriction applying to pregnancy tests from 1 February 2010 by removing the ‘Only on a WSO’ restriction and replacing it with a new ‘Only on a PSO’ restriction. The maximum number of tests that could be to be obtained per order would be 200.

Feedback sought PHARMAC welcomes feedback on this proposal. To provide feedback, please submit it in writing by Thursday, 24 December 2009 to: Greg Williams Therapeutic Group Manager PHARMAC PO Box 10 254 Wellington 6143 Email: greg.williams@pharmac.govt.nz Fax: 04 460 4995

All feedback received before the closing date will be considered by PHARMAC’s Board (or Chief Executive acting under delegated authority) prior to making a decision on this proposal.

Background Pregnancy tests are currently subsidised only when obtained via a Wholesale Supply Order (WSO). For clinicians to obtain these, they must order stock directly from the manufacturer, with the manufacturer then claiming a subsidy. In contrast, clinicians access most products that they require for direct provision to patients through the Practitioners Supply Order (PSO). Products obtained on PSO are obtained from community pharmacies. This change would make the ordering of subsidised pregnancy tests simpler for clinicians, by having it in line with the majority of subsidised products provided directly to clinicians (e.g. paracetamol, antibiotics, condoms). The change would also mean that each District Health Board (DHB) would only incur expenditure for pregnancy tests dispensed within the DHB’s boundaries. Currently two DHBs incur the majority of expenditure on behalf of all DHBs, and this change would rectify that situation. The proposal would not affect the availability of subsidised pregnancy tests, but would change the distribution channel to one that operated through community pharmacies. A325561 Page 1 of 1