Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) that affects 1 in 1000 New Zealanders. Women are three times more likely to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis than men.
The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is based on clinical symptoms and radiological findings. A lumbar puncture and spinal fluid analysis may also be recommended. The McDonald criteria is widely used by doctors when considering the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Patients with a single attack may be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis if other criteria are met.
New Zealanders have access to a range of multiple sclerosis disease modifying therapies. However, until recently Pharmac’s eligibility criteria for funded treatment meant patients must have experienced at least two seperate attacks (or relapses) before medication could be prescribed.
Pharmac has announced that from 1 July 2022 it will use the McDonald criteria for eligibility. The expanded access to medication brings New Zealand in line with many other countries. This means patients may be able to access funded treatment after only one attack of multiple sclerosis. Earlier treatment may prevent future attacks and long term disability.
