Sharing data – a new memorandum of understanding
The role of data at Te Pātaka Whaioranga – Pharmac is invaluable. It informs our budget, allows us to analyse and monitor pharmaceutical use, and helps us model future investments.
To guarantee the ongoing provision and use of health data, Pharmac has signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Te Whatu Ora.
“Since January 2002, Pharmac has had a MOU in place with the District Health Boards. This covered our working relationship and data access arrangements,” said Pharmac’s Director of Corporate Services, Kathryn McInteer.
“As a result of the health system reforms, and the disestablishment of the District Health Boards, a new MoU was required to replace the existing agreements.”
The new MoU sets out how Pharmac and Te Whatu Ora will work together to use health data.
“The MoU strengthens the constructive and effective working relationship between Pharmac and Te Whatu Ora. It supports good partnership practices and promotes engagement on key issues,” said Ms McInteer.
Specifically, the MoU relates to data collection and sharing of non-commercially sensitive information, and the maintenance of good data governance.
“Both Pharmac and Te Whatu Ora are committed to sharing data in a way that respects and protects the privacy of individuals.”
“Pharmac takes our obligations under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act and te Tiriti o Waitangi seriously. We only request data that is reasonably required to carry out our functions, and to benefit health outcomes,” said Ms McInteer.
Pharmac uses a wide range of data for multiple purposes, including:
- managing budget and spend for subsidised pharmaceuticals
- modelling future investment in pharmaceuticals
- claiming rebates from pharmaceutical suppliers
- forecasting and budgeting for the supply of pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies
- analysing, monitoring, and reporting on equitable access to and distribution of pharmaceuticals
- monitoring and reporting on our work – including expectations as set by the Pae Ora Act.
*The new MoU with Te Whatu Ora relates to data collection, the sharing of non-commercially sensitive information, and the maintenance of good data governance only. It does not replace any other existing MoU with former DHBs.
This story is part of our Kauneke Update
The Kauneke Update will keep you informed on important news and progress towards Te Pātaka Whaioranga – Pharmac's strategic goals. In te reo Māori, kauneke means to develop and move forward.
Next Kauneke Update: 30 years of Pharmac, the review, and our Statement of Intent