Home > Review Articles > Funding > Real world initiation of newly funded empagliflozin and dulaglutide under special authority for patients with type 2 diabetes in New Zealand

Real world initiation of newly funded empagliflozin and dulaglutide under special authority for patients with type 2 diabetes in New Zealand

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From Māori Health Review Issue 115
Authors:
  • Chepulis L et al.
Summary:

Prioritised access for sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors/GLP-1 receptor agonists (SGLT2i/GLP1RA) appears to be associated with a reduced health equity gap for Māori and Pacific patients with type 2 diabetes, according to a study of primary care practice. Data for patients aged 18–75 years were collected from four primary care organisations (302 general practices) in Auckland and the Waikato, over the period February 2021 to July 2022. A total of 22,331 patients with type 2 diabetes were eligible for funded SGLT2i/ GLP1RA, and 10,272 were prescribed this treatment. Prescription rates were highest for Māori (50.8%) and Pacific (48.8%) patients compared with other ethnic groups (36.240.7%; p < 0.001), but were comparable between those with and without cardiovascular disease and/or renal disease or risk (47.1% and 48.9%, respectively). The highest rates of prescribing came from Māori health providers and practices with higher doctor/patient numbers, low-cost fees and no after-hours access.

Comment:
The evidence that Māori and Pacific patients had the highest initiation rates of SGLT2i/GLP1RA therapies suggests that policy mechanisms, such as Special Authority criteria and prioritised funding, can be effective levers for addressing longstanding and growing health inequities. Targeted treatment funding has translated into equitable outcomes, which can’t be ignored.
Reference: BMC Health Serv Res. 2025;25(1):433.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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