Calls for the government to expand access to a life-saving kidney medication

Empagliflozin slows the progression of kidney disease - but it's only funded in New Zealand for type 2 diabetes.

A report from health consultants HTAnalysts estimates annual savings of 135-million in health and productivity costs, if the government expands access.

Kidney Health New Zealand's Madi Keay says it's an equity issue.

She says there's a huge discrepancy between those with type 2 diabetes and those with chronic kidney disease.

She says kidney disease patients would equally benefit from the drug, but are having to self-fund.