13 Nov 2012

Cook Islands hopes NZ's Pharmac can solve its drug supply problems

6:28 am on 13 November 2012

The Cook Islands health minister has asked for New Zealand's help to improve the country's stock of medical supplies.

The Minister of Health Nandi Glassie says he has recently told his New Zealand counterpart, Tony Ryall, about the shortages the country regularly experiences.

Cook Islands medical supplies drugs are ordered through the Netherlands and Mr Glassie asked Mr Ryall if New Zealand's drug buying agency, Pharmac, could also supply the Cooks.

Mr Glassie told Parliament that the chairman of Pharmac has indicated the request would be given some consideration.