Rural NZ faces shift as copper network deregulation looms
Rural communities say support is required to shift away from the copper network that has been the only source of internet connection for some parts of rural New Zealand.
Earlier this week, Pharmac announced that Estradiol TDP Mylan would be the main funded brand of oestradiol patches from 1 July 2025 and would be the only funded brand available from 1 December 2025.
According to Pharmac, in the past three years, demand for oestradiol has tripled and is expected to continue rising.
The Mylan patches have been provisionally approved by Medsafe and Pharmac says it anticipates full approval by Medsafe before 1 July 2025.
The decision has been met with concern and outrage, with a petition being launched asking the government to step in and reverse the decision.
RWNZ national president Sandra Matthews says that while her organisation is pleased to see a more secure supply chain for oestradiol patches and gel after recent global shortages, the decision to limit the funded brands will remove “freedom of choice for women to make the right choice for their bodies”.
“This is causing concern for many women around New Zealand, many of whom have tried several different types of HRT patches before finding the right one,” Matthews says.
“Managing menopause is a major part of a woman’s life and this decision is affecting many women’s health, wellbeing and welfare during and already incredibly challenging period of their lives,” she says.
Matthews claims the decision is also inequitable because women who prefer other brands will need to fund them themselves or face using a brand that doesn’t work for them or could cause adverse effects.
“We call on Pharmac to do the right thing by women and reconsider its decision to de-list existing available brands,” she concludes.
Meanwhile, Pharmac chief executive Sarah Fitt says she understands people are concerned by the decision, but adds that it was Pharmac’s only option given the continuing supply issue.
“Pharmac has been managing ongoing supply shortages of the current oestradiol patches for several years, and we know that’s been very difficult for people,” Fitt says.
“Based on the information from the current supplier, Sandoz, it is unable to fully meet our supply needs with Estradot due to the continually increasing demand The company we will contract with, Viatris, has provided an assurance that it is able to meet current and future demand – making it the only viable option,” she says.
Fitt notes that the new brand may not be suitable for all women and so is working to ensure there is an alternative option available if needed.
“We’re still working out the details and we’ll share that information once it’s confirmed.”
