Pharmacists employed by Health New Zealand have ratified a new collective agreement following a vote by members of the Association of Professionals & Executive Employees (APEX).

Health Minister Simeon Brown said about 300 pharmacists nationwide will benefit. “I’m pleased for the approximately 300 pharmacists nationwide who will benefit from this agreement. It recognises the valuable work they do and the high level of skill and care they provide to patients and their families each day,” he said.

Brown said the agreement is intended to provide greater stability for the workforce and support the role pharmacists play across the health system. The deal includes “uplifts to professional membership contributions” and other unspecified improvements to the collective.

No further details were released in the Minister’s statement, including the size of any pay increases, the term of the agreement, when changes take effect, or whether back pay applies.

The agreement covers pharmacists directly employed by Health New Zealand, typically in hospital and specialist services. Most community pharmacists, who are employed by private pharmacy owners, are not covered by this settlement.