Pharmac CEO Sarah Fitt Steps Down: A Turning Point for Healthcare
In a significant move that has sent ripples through the healthcare industry, Pharmac chief executive Sarah Fitt has officially resigned from her position. The announcement, made in a statement released on Friday, marks the end of Fitt’s seven-year tenure at the drug funding agency. Effective May 30, 2025, Fitt will be stepping down, following a period of leave in April and May. Pharmac has already initiated the process of recruiting a new CEO to fill her shoes.
Fitt’s resignation comes on the heels of mounting pressure, with a 100,000 signature petition calling for her dismissal presented to Parliament’s health select committee back in December 2024. Throughout her time as CEO, Fitt has faced numerous challenges, with calls for her resignation gaining momentum since 2018. However, it was in 2023 that criticisms against her reached a crescendo, as emails obtained under the Official Information Act revealed a perceived “sneering and contemptuous” attitude among some Pharmac staff.
One email, in particular, drew sharp criticism, with Fitt expressing exasperation with a column by journalist Rachel Smalley discussing cancer patients who depended on the public health system. The email’s subject line, “Sigh….”, and a staff member’s joke about making Smalley cry sparked outrage among patients and healthcare professionals. Accusations of being out of touch with the realities faced by patients further fueled the calls for Fitt’s resignation.
Towards the end of last year, Pharmac faced backlash for changes made to hormone replacement therapy patch brands, prompting both Pharmac Minister David Seymour and chairwoman Paula Bennett to withhold their confidence in Fitt. However, the agency swiftly reversed course on the issue shortly after. Associate Health Minister David Seymour, in acknowledging Fitt’s resignation, commended her dedication to expanding patient access and opportunities within Pharmac’s core mission.
Seymour expressed gratitude for Fitt’s service, stating, “I acknowledge Sarah’s decision to step down from the role and thank her for her work in providing modern healthcare for New Zealanders. I wish her all the very best for the future.” The resignation of Fitt, along with a string of departures by other top health officials, including Director-General of Health Diana Sarfati and Health New Zealand chief executive Fepulea’i Margie Apa, signifies a period of transition within the healthcare landscape.
Reflections on Fitt’s Legacy
As the dust settles on Sarah Fitt’s resignation, the healthcare industry grapples with the implications of her departure. Fitt’s tenure as Pharmac CEO has been marked by both accomplishments and controversies, highlighting the complexities of leading a critical healthcare agency. While her commitment to improving patient access and care has been acknowledged, the challenges faced under her leadership have sparked important conversations about accountability and transparency within the healthcare system.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pharmac
With the search for a new CEO underway, Pharmac stands at a crossroads, poised to redefine its strategy and vision for the future. The incoming leader will inherit a legacy shaped by Fitt’s tenure, with expectations high for transformative leadership that prioritizes patient needs and fosters collaboration across the healthcare sector. As New Zealand navigates evolving healthcare demands, the role of Pharmac in shaping the nation’s healthcare landscape remains paramount.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday. The resignation of Sarah Fitt marks a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s healthcare journey, underscoring the importance of strong leadership and vision in advancing modern healthcare practices. As the industry adapts to changing dynamics, the legacy of Fitt’s tenure at Pharmac will continue to shape the dialogue around patient care and access, setting the stage for a new chapter in healthcare innovation and excellence.