Ivana Jovicic brings more than 20 years of frontline experience in New Zealand’s health sector, currently serving as Associate Lead Pharmacist – Surgical at Waikato Hospital. Her experience spans general surgery, neurosurgery, intensive care, neonatal care, and nutrition support services, giving her a deep understanding of how the health system operates in practice.

Having worked with patients from all walks of life, Ivana understands that barriers to healthcare go far beyond race alone, often involving poverty, education, rural isolation, addiction, and immigration challenges. Originally from the former Yugoslavia, later Serbia, she also brings a personal understanding of the realities faced by migrant families and the failures of overly bureaucratic socialist systems. Ivana believes New Zealand needs a healthcare system focused on practical outcomes, patient need, and reducing bureaucracy so frontline professionals can deliver better care.