This is the text extract for Proposal to list a new brand of sodium chloride in Section H. Closed, browse documents here.

30 July 2010

Proposal to list a new brand of sodium chloride in Section H

PHARMAC is seeking feedback on a proposal to list the Freeflex brand of sodium chloride 0.9% infusion in Part II of Section H from 1 November 2010. The proposal does not include Hospital Supply Status, so DHB Hospitals would have discretion over which brand or brands they purchase. As part of a proposed agreement with the supplier, Fresenius Kabi Australia Pty Limited, PHARMAC would agree not to delist Freeflex prior to 1 July 2012. Feedback sought PHARMAC welcomes feedback on this proposal. To provide feedback, please submit it in writing by Friday, 13 August 2010 to: Andrew Davies Procurement Initiatives Manager PHARMAC PO Box 10 254 Wellington 6143 Email: andrew.davies@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. Details of the proposal The following products would be listed in Section H of the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 November 2010:

Chemical Sodium chloride Sodium chloride Presentation Inf 0.9% Inf 0.9% Brand Freeflex Freeflex Pack size 500 ml 1000 ml Price $1.70 $1.71

PHARMAC would not delist Freeflex prior to 1 July 2012. We note that PHARMAC is currently unable to implement Hospital Supply Status for any brand of sodium chloride until 1 July 2012 due to an existing agreement with Baxter Healthcare. Background In 2009 PHARMAC ran an RFP for intravenous fluids. A non-exclusive agreement with Baxter Healthcare was entered into last year covering much of the range of fluids. We also received a proposal from Fresenius for a smaller set of fluids. Fresenius has spent some time discussing aspects of product acceptability with a number of DHBs, and as a result is making some changes to its labeling. It is now ready to launch its sodium chloride 500 ml and 1000 ml bags.

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