New Zealand's Health NZ blocks early access to cancer drug Keytruda, despite Merck Sharp and Dohme's offer.

Cancer groups in New Zealand are frustrated and disappointed with Health NZ's decision to block early access to the cancer drug Keytruda. Merck Sharp and Dohme offered to provide free access to 20-30 patients before the drug's full funding begins on Oct. 1, but Health NZ prevented this, citing a national implementation plan for the drug. Cancer organizations argue that this delay may affect patients' eligibility for the treatment, as some may receive less effective treatments in the interim.

August 04, 2024
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