PHARMAC is pleased to announce the approval of a proposal to amend the Pharmaceutical Schedule rules relating to the Dispensing Frequency rule. This was the subject of a consultation letter dated 6 November 2013 which can be found on PHARMAC’s website.

In summary, the effect of the decision is that the following changes will take effect from 1 June 2014:

• Increased frequency of subsidised dispensing will be permitted for some patients taking clozapine or Class B controlled drugs in residential care; and
• Zopiclone will be added to the Safety Medicines list

For more details, go to: http://www.pharmac.health.nz/news/notification-2014-05-14-dispensing-frequency/