Influencing policy and decisions
Submissions are a critical part of advocacy. Breast Cancer Foundation NZ responds to proposed policies, funding decisions and health system changes with evidence drawn from Te Rēhita Mate Ūtaetae - Breast Cancer Foundation National Register, research, clinical expertise and the experiences of patients and whānau.
By engaging early and directly with decision-makers, we can identify unintended consequences, challenge inequities and help shape policies that improve access to screening, diagnosis, treatment, medicines and support.
Pae ora (Healthy Futures) amendment bill 2025
The proposed Bill made significant changes to the legislation governing New Zealand's health system, including the roles, responsibilities and accountability of Health New Zealand and other health agencies.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ submitted that these changes should place greater emphasis on improving patient outcomes, rather than simply delivering health services.
We called for stronger accountability for cancer outcomes, earlier diagnosis, faster access to medicines and innovation, and ensuring patient voices help shape health policy.
Putting patients first. Supporting transitional funding for newly funded cancer medicines in private hospitals and clinics
This submission responded to Health New Zealand's proposal to allow some patients already receiving cancer treatment privately to continue their care after a medicine becomes publicly funded.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ supported the proposal but recommended changes to ensure more patients could benefit, including funding treatment administration costs, reducing delays, improving equity and creating a nationally consistent approach.