Real world initiation of newly funded empagliflozin and dulaglutide under special authority for patients with type 2 diabetes in New Zealand

• DOI: 10.1186/s12913-025-12601-3
• Publication Date: 2025-03-26T07:08:32Z
• Authors: Lynne Chepulis; Mark Rodrigues; Han Gan; Rawiri Keenan; Tim Kenealy; Rinki Murphy; Leanne Te Karu; Jo Scott-Jones; Penny Clark; Allan Moffitt; Sara Mustafa; Ross Lawrenson; Ryan Paul
• Keywords: Empagliflozin; Health administration

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is sub-optimally managed for many in Aotearoa New Zealand, and disproportionately affects Māori Pacific peoples. In February 2021, SGLT2i/GLP1RA agents were funded use the first time with prioritisation Māori, those cardiovascular and/or renal disease or risk (CVRD). This study evaluates impact of health system factors on initiation therapy. Primary care data was collected patients T2D aged 18–75 years from four primary organisations (302 general practices) Auckland / Waikato region Zealand (Feb 2021 – July 2022). Initiation therapy reviewed by patient (age, gender, ethnicity, CVRD status) variables (funding, provider type, staffing, numbers, rurality, after-hours access). Logistic regression used to estimate odds ratio a being dispensed SGLT2i/GLP1RA. Of 57,743 T2D, 22,331 eligible access 10,272 (46.0%) prescribed. highest (50.8%) (48.8%) (vs. 36·2–40·7% other ethnic groups; P < 0.001), but comparable without (47·1% vs. 48·9%; = 0.2). Prescribing practices higher doctor/patient low-cost fees, providers clinics access. Prioritised appears be associated reduced equity gap NZ, work required improve prescribing CVRD.