Endometriosis New Zealand is welcoming Pharmac’s decision to publicly fund
desogestrel, a move that will significantly improve access to this important
treatment option for people living with endometriosis.
“This decision will be a major boost for many New Zealanders affected by
endometriosis,” says Tanya Cooke, Chief Executive of Endometriosis New
Zealand. “For far too long, access to desogestrel, which is an effective hormonal
treatment for endometriosis, has been dictated by cost rather than clinical
need.”
“Pharmac’s decision is a vital step towards ensuring that every person with
endometriosis can access this desogestrel, regardless of their financial situation.”
Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects around
120,000 New Zealanders. Desogestrel (known by the brand name Cerazette) is
widely recognised as helping to reduce menstrual bleeding and associated pain.
“In our advocacy work with healthcare professionals and the endometriosis
community we’ve repeatedly heard that the lack of funding for first-line
treatments like desogestrel has led to delays in symptom management,” says
Cooke.
“By funding desogestrel, Pharmac has removed one of the key barriers to timely,
effective treatment of endometriosis and its often-debilitating symptoms.”
This decision, coming in the middle of Endometriosis Awareness Month, is a
major boost to those living with endometriosis in New Zealand. However, there
is a long way to go until they receive the care they deserve, which is why
Endometriosis New Zealand continues to call for a National Endometriosis Action
Plan.
“Ultimately, a National Action Plan for Endometriosis is required to provide the
necessary education and awareness to primary healthcare professionals, reduce
diagnosis delays and train the specialists Aotearoa needs to improve care and
treatment outcomes for those living with endometriosis,” says Cooke.