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
The Ministerial Advisory Group on the Health System
Late last year health minister David Clark announced the establishment of a new Ministerial Advisory Group on the health system.
In a press release, Dr Clark says the ministerial committee will help ensure Labour's $8 billion investment in health makes a positive difference to people’s lives. "It will provide fresh perspective and independent advice about how we can improve our health system and deliver better services to New Zealanders," he says.
He has asked the committee members to advise him on lifting the Ministry’s performance and leadership, strengthening relationships across the sector, and helping to deliver the Government’s strategic direction for health. "This work is critical to improving the quality of our health services."
Click on a member's picture to read their biography.