Former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett is taking up a new role as the boss of Pharmac’s board.
The former National MP, who was in politics for 15 years before leaving in 2020, held portfolios including social development, associate finance, state services, social housing, police, local government and tourism.
Now, she’s been appointed as a member and chair of Pharmac’s board.
“Paula brings a wealth of experience to this role, with extensive experience in governance and organisational change,” Associate Health Minister David Seymour said in announcing the appointment on Sunday.
“As chair, Paula will lead the Pharmac board in their role of managing the pharmaceutical schedule and driving greater efficiencies and access to medicine for New Zealanders.”
For the 2023/24 financial year, Pharmac’s Government-allocated pharmaceutical budget is $1.245 billion. The agency invests this into medicines, vaccines and related products for New Zealanders.
Pharmac’s 2022/23 spend was $1.186 billion – far lower than Australia’s AU$17 billion, however unlike New Zealand, Australia doesn’t have a fixed budget.