Call for Pharmac to Widen Proposed Criteria for Shingrix Funding
Pharmac announced, in February, it was looking to extend funded access to Shingrix, the new vaccination for shingles, to immunocompromised people over 18 years old. However, the proposal listed specific treatments and conditions eligible. While we were pleased to see people who are pre- or post-haematopoietic stem cell transplant included, we were disappointed that MS […]
The Neurological Alliance: Our Strength is in the Numbers
Multiple Sclerosis NZ is a proud member of the Neurological Alliance along with 19 other allied organisations. The Neurological Alliance of New Zealand (the Alliance) was established in 1999 to provide a forum for organisations representing a neurological disease to: Advocate for the best outcomes for those living with neurological conditions in New Zealand through […]
Ocrelizumab for Primary Progressive MS
On the 1st of October Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab) was finally funded for those with Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) who meet the Pharmac criteria for access. We prepared some information to answer the most common questions we have been receiving. Ocrevus for PPMS – Your Questions Answered. In most cases this will require you to request a […]
MS Voice Newsletter – October 2023
Welcome to our October 2023 edition of MS Voice. Spring has sprung…….although it seems we are flip flopping between seasons at the moment with this changeable weather! For today, however, you can spring into the October edition of MS Voice, where we update you of our recent AGM and conference, introduce you to some wonderful […]
Code of Rights when using a health or disability service.
When you use a health or disability service in Aotearoa New Zealand, you have the protection of the Code of Rights. It’s important that everyone knows their rights so they can ask questions, seek support, and ensure their voices are heard. The Health and Disability Commissioner has produced an animated video to explain your rights […]
Media Release: “Relief” over Pharmac Decision to Fund First-Ever Treatment for Debilitating Form of Multiple Sclerosis
A seven year battle on behalf of hundreds of people living with the most debilitating form of Multiple Sclerosis has been won – with Pharmac agreeing to fund Aotearoa New Zealand’s first ever treatment for the disease variant from October 1st. Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand (MSNZ) says the decision to fund Ocrelizumab is hugely positive […]
2023 Election – Carers Alliance Briefing
Carers NZ have published their Election Briefing asking Politicians and their parties how they will care for NZ’s one million plus family, whānau, and aiga carers. Download a copy here: Carers Election Briefing 2023 Final
‘Exhaustion and dread’ : Desperate carer calls for change
Speaking in support of the Carers Alliance petition, Maxine Hall, a carer for her husband with Multiple Sclerosis, speaks of her struggles and hopes that this campaign will at least raise awareness. View original article on Otago Daily Times: https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/exhaustion-and-dread-desperate-carer-calls-change A Mosgiel caregiver desperate for a break after averaging fewer than four days off […]
Media Release: Nationwide petition launched to fight “shocking” lack of fair support for carers
Media Release: Friday 5th June 2023 A powerful Alliance representing 56 national not-for-profits is demanding the Government stop “dragging its feet” to provide long overdue recognition and basic rights for the estimated one million largely unpaid New Zealanders struggling to care for whānau and loved ones. The Carers Alliance is now taking its fight to […]
Major announcement: Pharmac Initiates Consultation to fund Ocrelizumab for Primary Progressive MS.
Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand (MSNZ) is delighted to share that Pharmac have commenced consultation to fund Ocrelizumab for Primary Progressive MS. Currently, those with PPMS have no access to any disease modifying therapies. Ocrelizumab has been proven in trials to delay time to wheelchair by 7 years allowing people to continue working, supporting their families […]