For older people and frail people, the long-term benefit of medicines reduces and the potential for harm from adverse effects increases. When the benefit–risk balance changes in this way, medicine review and optimisation are important to simplify the therapeutic regimen, reduce inappropriate medicines and minimise risks. In this article, pharmacist prescriber Linda Bryant uses two case studies to illustrate important considerations during medicine reviews
HealthCare NZ - Stellar supporter of suppliers, services, products or campaigns
HealthCare NZ - Stellar supporter of suppliers, services, products or campaigns

HealthCare NZ is sponsoring the Best Supplier, Service, Product or Campaign Award in the 2025 New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards | He Tohu Mauri Ora. Nursing director Vanessa Pullan, tells us what it means to be a Stellar Supporter.
Why is HealthCare NZ sponsoring the primary healthcare awards?
We’re deeply invested in the strength and sustainability of the primary care sector. These awards are a powerful platform to celebrate those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to enable better health outcomes for the people of Aotearoa.
What is HealthCare NZ’s key area of involvement in primary care?
As New Zealand’s largest healthcare, disability and wellbeing support provider, we play a crucial role in supporting individuals to live well in their homes and communities. We work alongside GPs, PHOs and other providers to ensure clients receive holistic, connected support across their health journeys.
What is it that interests you personally about the category HealthCare NZ is sponsoring?
The Best Supplier, Service, Product or Campaign Award resonates with us because it highlights those often-unsung heroes whose work supports and enables frontline primary and community care.
What do you hope this sponsorship will achieve for the entrants in this category?
We hope it shines a spotlight on their mahi and encourages others to think boldly about how they can contribute to a stronger, more connected health ecosystem. Recognition at this level can open doors, spark collaborations and inspire further innovation – all of which benefits the entire sector and the people we support.
What is a great experience you have had in primary care that you can share with us?
The nursing team at HealthCare NZ have a fantastic, collaborative relationship with our primary care colleagues. There are many great examples of this, but all are centred around our desire to continue to support people to live well in their homes – whether this be urgent medical reviews to keep people out of hospital, supporting whānau with carer stress, or providing urgent acute care following an injury or fall.
How would you describe the sector in three words?
Resilient, compassionate, evolving.
If you were asked to name a popular song as the anthem for primary care, what would you choose?
Heroes (David Bowie). It captures the everyday heroism of those working in primary care – quietly, consistently and with heart.

The New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards | He Tohu Mauri Ora is Aotearoa's premiere celebration of excellence in the field of primary healthcare. The awards honour the incredible contributions of our healthcare professionals in a wide range of categories. Category list available on www.nzphawards.co.nz/categories.
Don't miss out on this amazing event that will let the stars of primary healthcare shine under a literal spotlight. Make sure you and your team are there on the night to celebrate and be inspired. Dust off your tux and get a new sparkly dress - It's going to be a night to remember!
Buy tickets here: https://app.galabid.com/nzpha/