Insights into New Zealand’s health sector

New Zealand’s healthcare organisations are located throughout the country and employ 10.4% of New Zealand’s workforce.

Health is a major contributor to New Zealand’s economy, and it’s expected to grow as international demand expands. New Zealand organisations often collaborate with overseas laboratories to advance their medical findings and research.

Successful collaboration

Expertise in other industries including biotechnology, information technology and specialised manufacturing also contribute to its success.

New Zealand’s nationalised healthcare system is renowned for its innovative approach and focus on patient well-being. In fact, New Zealand was ranked first in patient-centred care in a 2007 Commonwealth Fund Survey.

Pharmaceuticals

New Zealand’s health sector is world renowned for manufacturing and developing pharmaceuticals for the treatment of asthma, diabetes and cancer.

Excelling in pharmaceutical research, more than 130 drugs were in development throughout the country in 2008. Many were being trialled for the treatment of cancer. New Zealand is well positioned to meet the global demand for pharmaceutical exports and have state-of-the-art production facilities.

Dentistry

Dentistry is another sector of the health industry that’s rapidly growing. According to a survey done in July 2009, New Zealand has more than 1,800 dental businesses employing over 4,600 people.

New Zealand provides health-minded investors incredible opportunities – from funding private health organisations and supporting ground breaking medical research to manufacturing and sales of medical equipment.

Key Resources

We suggest looking at the following resources:

• The Health Research Council of New Zealand promotes and funds health research in New Zealand
• The New Zealand Medical Association publishes the New Zealand Medical Journal and is the largest medical organisation in New Zealand
• The Ministry of Health monitors the health and disability system and gives advice to New Zealand’s government about health issues
• The Researched Medicines Industry Association of New Zealand represents organisations involved in the research, production and marketing of pharmaceuticals
• The New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Medical Technologies website provides an overview of medical and health technologies in New Zealand
• The Medical Technology Association of New Zealand represents medical technology manufacturers, importers and distributers in New Zealand
• The Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand Inc represents over 3,000 pharmacists and provide professional support and assistance
• The Pharmacy Council of New Zealand promotes good pharmacist practice and manages the registration of pharmacists in New Zealand
• The New Zealand Dental Association is the professional body representing New Zealand dentists
• Living Cell Technologies is a New Zealand organisation developing cellular therapy for a variety of diseases.