15 April 2025
Te Kāhui Mātai Arotamariki o Aotearoa | The Paediatric Society of New Zealand (PSNZ) is celebrating a meaningful advocacy win following Pharmac’s decision to fund Ryzodeg, a new combination insulin, from 1 May 2025. This outcome aligns with the recommendations put forward in PSNZ’s recent submission and will benefit thousands of New Zealanders living with diabetes, including children and young people.
Pharmac expects around 13,000 people will benefit in the first year alone, with this number rising to 18,000 over five years. Ryzodeg combines both long- and rapid-acting insulin, helping people better manage blood sugar levels throughout the day, while reducing the number of daily injections required.
In our submission, PSNZ highlighted the unique needs of tamariki and rangatahi with diabetes, particularly those facing complex treatment regimens that can impact adherence, wellbeing, and long-term health outcomes. We also emphasised the role that more flexible insulin options like Ryzodeg can play in reducing inequities for whānau facing social or resource-based challenges.
This is an important decision. For some young people, a simplified insulin option can be life-changing. It means fewer barriers to staying well, and more choices for clinicians to tailor care that fits with a young person’s life.
We’re proud to have joined voices with Diabetes NZ and the NZ Society for the Study of Diabetes in supporting this change, and we thank Pharmac for listening to the health sector and communities.
PSNZ remains committed to advocating for the needs of children and young people in all areas of health policy and funding. Today’s announcement is a great example of what can be achieved when expert advice and lived experience inform national decisions.