New Zealand minister seeks answers on funding switch for oestrogen patches

The New Zealand government is seeking clarification from Pharmac after it announced it would stop funding Estradot, a popular oestrogen patch, by the end of next year. Pharmac will switch to funding Mylan patches instead, causing concern among many women. Minister David Seymour has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision-making process and how patient feedback was considered. Some doctors worry that the switch could negatively impact patients' health, as they may not tolerate the new brand. Pharmac's chief executive stated that the change aims to ensure a stable supply of medication, as Estradot's supplier has struggled to meet demand. She emphasized that Mylan is expected to meet the needs of most patients.