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PHARMAC’s new initiative will make empagliflozin (Jardiance), a heart medication, available to 18,000 New Zealanders with chronic heart failure starting 1 December 2024.
The initiative aims to improve access to treatment and ease the burden of heart disease on New Zealand’s healthcare system.
The Rise of Heart Failure Cases in New Zealand
Chronic heart failure rates continue to rise, with Māori and Pacific communities disproportionately affected due to genetic predispositions and socioeconomic factors.
The condition disrupts the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, burdening both patients and the healthcare system. Limited treatment options have made it challenging to manage symptoms and curb hospital admissions.
According to a report by bpac NZ, heart failure affects approximately 1.6% of all adults in New Zealand, and ≥ 10% of those aged over 70 years.
Additionally, a study published in PubMed, found that between 2006 and 2018, ethnic inequities in incident heart failure hospitalisations have widened in New Zealand. The research provides detailed information on the disparities in heart failure incidence among different ethnic groups, particularly highlighting the higher rates among Māori and Pacific people compared to European/others and Asians.
Geraldine MacGibbon, PHARMAC’s Director of Pharmaceuticals, states that widening access to empagliflozin will lower the chances of cardiovascular death, reduce hospital stays, and enhance patients’ quality of life.
“In the first year of funding, we estimate 18,000 New Zealanders with chronic heart failure will benefit, with that number increasing to over 37,000 by year five,” she says. “This will help people live longer, healthier lives with their whānau and communities.”
Empagliflozin is An Alternative for Heart Failure Patients
Empagliflozin, which was previously funded for type 2 diabetes in Aotearoa, has been shown in several studies to be effective in reducing cardiovascular deaths and hospital admissions.
Health Benefits Beyond Patients
Empagliflozin’s expanded funding is thus anticipated to bring meaningful relief to both patients and healthcare providers, allowing individuals more stability and independence by reducing the need for frequent hospital care.
MacGibbon shares, “People with chronic heart failure will be able to live healthier, longer lives with their whānau and communities. We also anticipate this funding will lead to fewer hospitalisations, helping to ease the strain on the wider healthcare system.”
Perspectives from Health Organisations
Dr. Gerry Devlin, Medical Director of the Heart Foundation, views the new funding as a step toward improved heart health standards in New Zealand, noting that empagliflozin can add up to six years of life for heart failure patients compared to traditional treatments.
“Expanding access will significantly improve the quality of life for many patients and have a positive impact on the nation’s overall heart health,” he says.