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
From lived experience to peer support – NZ’s first mental health minister on what makes him tick
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From lived experience to peer support – NZ’s first mental health minister on what makes him tick
Wednesday 30 April 2025, 03:30 AM

Matt Doocey has experience of navigating his own mental health issues. He pushed for the creation of a dedicated mental health minister, and took up the role after the 2023 election [Image: Hagen Hopkins]
When the Coalition Government formed in November 2023, Matt Doocey became the country’s first mental health minister. Following a Cabinet reshuffle in January, he is now solely focused on that portfolio. Deputy editor Patrice Dougan spoke to him about the role, his priorities, and the car crash that changed his life
ESSENTIALS
Matt Doocey is New Zealand’s first mental health minister.
Mr Doocey has a background in counselling psychology and has worked in m, READ MORE
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand Doctor Rata Aotearoa
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