Since becoming NZ first Breast Physician, Jackie has been heavily involved with lobbying for full funding for the Breast Cancer drug Herceptin. In opposition she accepted several petitions calling for full funding of this life saving drug.
Overwhelming scientific evidence [link to Breast Cancer Aotearoa Collation web site]
It was due to Jackie’s tenacity and lobbying that finally brought relief for women who were diagnosed with Her2+ Breast Cancer. The new John Key led National Govt elected in November 2008 honoured an election pledge to make Herceptin a PHARMAC listed drug. Previously women were required to pay (up to) $120,000 for this life saving drug treatment. Jackie is now delighted that the National Govt has delivered on this early promise, and finally - NZ can be favourably compared with other OECD countries, in granting comprehensive access to women in need of Herceptin.