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flag New Zealand's new bill speeds drug access by recognizing foreign approvals, expands provider prescribing rights, and allows emergency alternative medicines.

flag New Zealand's Medicines Amendment Bill, introduced October 21, 2025, aims to speed up access to new medicines by allowing drugs approved in two other countries to be used without separate Medsafe approval. flag It expands prescribing rights for pharmacists and nurse practitioners, especially in rural areas, and permits emergency use of alternative funded medicines. flag A planned amendment would allow marketing of unapproved drugs at domestic medical conferences, potentially saving $90 million over ten years. flag The bill, revised after Health Committee review, allows qualifying countries to be set by regulation, increasing flexibility. flag While supported broadly, concerns remain over timing and lack of public consultation on the marketing amendment.

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