4 May 2016 - New Zealand has a very high incidence of advanced melanoma (metastatic or unresectable Stage III and IV melanoma) for which there is an unmet health need for effective treatment options.

Following PHARMAC’s careful assessment of the available evidence for relevant treatments, we are seeking feedback on a proposal to list nivolumab (Opdivo) on the Pharmaceutical Schedule through a provisional agreement with Bristol-Myers Squibb from 1 July 2016 for patients with unresectable or metastatic (advanced) melanoma.

In summary, this proposal would mean that from 1 July 2016 nivolumab would be fully funded, subject to certain clinical criteria being met, for patients with metastatic or unresectable (advanced) melanoma.

For more details, go to: http://www.pharmac.govt.nz/news/consultation-2016-05-04-nivolumab/