Clinical trials are a core part of a high-performing health system, providing the evidence base for medicines, other health interventions and models of care.
Manatū Hauora is leading work to strengthen the environment for clinical trials in the health system, which is a key action under Strategic Priority 2 of the New Zealand Health Research Strategy (2017–2027). This involves considering what is required for New Zealand to have an equitable and sustainable national approach to clinical trials in the health system.
In 2020, Manatū Hauora partnered with the Health Research Council of New Zealand (the HRC) to fund research to inform the design of a national, equity-centred model for clinical trials in New Zealand. The Enhancing Aotearoa New Zealand Clinical Trials research project was co-led by researchers from the University of Auckland and the University of Otago. The project was completed in July 2022 and proposes a model and roadmap for a National Clinical Trials Network for consideration by health agencies.
Manatū Hauora is working closely with Te Aka Whai Ora (the Māori Health Authority) and Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand), with input from the HRC, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Te Aho o Te Kahu – Cancer Control Agency to consider how the proposal and how such a model could be implemented within the health system.
You can read the Enhancing Aotearoa New Zealand Clinical Trials final report on the University of Auckland website.
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