10 June 2016 - PHARMAC has been accused of leaving melanoma patients in suspense by not telling them earlier when their funding decisions would be made.

Yesterday, Pharmac announced it would fully fund six new treatments starting 1 July, including treatments for advanced melanoma and hepatitis C.

This comes after a government pledge of $124 million to the agency over four years.

Starting next month, the public will for the first time get access to Opdivo, a vital drug providing treatment for advanced melanoma.

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman said it was an important step forward.

"Opdivo is an excellent drug that is going to end up prolonging about 350 lives per year."

"Previously we haven't had an effective funded drug for metastatic malignant melanoma, and this is a major breakthrough."

For more details, go to: http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/306043/cancer-drug-'a-long-time-coming'