Local Government in New Zealand Turns to AI to Cut Costs and Boost Efficiency
July 4, 2025
Artificial Intelligence Could Speed Up Drug Approvals and Save Lives
The New Zealand government is encouraging key health agencies — Pharmac and Medsafe — to explore the use of artificial intelligence to improve medicine access and speed up regulatory processes, according to Radio New Zealand.
Minister of Health Shane Reti says AI can help review drug data faster and assist with decision-making, without replacing human judgment. With growing patient demand and delayed access to lifesaving medications, the government sees AI as a tool to streamline workflows and reduce costs.
Health agencies are cautiously optimistic but insist on robust safeguards and maintaining transparency. Stakeholders stress that patient safety must remain the top priority.
(Read the full article on the Radio New Zealand.)
*An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.
