Pharmacovigilance and Equity: Medicine Safety for First Nations Communities

In this episode of the Cognitio Podcast, host Tim Boyle explores one of the most critical equity challenges in Australian healthcare: ensuring safe, effective, culturally informed use of medicines for First Nations peoples.Tim is joined by four respected leaders in medicine safety: Karen Battat (AstraZeneca), Vinham Mehta (Novartis), Marcela Bade (former TGA pharmacovigilance inspector) and Matt Iglesias, who together unpack the unique risk factors, data gaps and cultural considerations that influence pharmacovigilance in First Nations communities.The conversation highlights why First Nations representation in safety data remains low, the impact this has on signal detection and patient outcomes, and what meaningful, practical steps the sector can take — from culturally grounded educational materials to strengthened community partnerships and more robust system design.This episode is essential listening for anyone working in regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance, clinical operations, public health or industry leadership. It’s a powerful reminder that medicine safety is not just a technical obligation, but a commitment to fairness, respect and culturally responsive practice.Join the ARCS community as a Professional Member — or bring your whole organisation on board — to stay connected, informed and engaged with the conversations shaping the future of the life sciences sector.

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