Melanoma advocates hope a new Pharmac proposal will take the pressure off patients

Consultation's open on whether to expand access to two immunotherapy medicines for people with stage 3b and 4 melanoma from May.

Used pre-surgery, nivolumab and ipilimumab can lower the chance of cancers returning.

Melanoma NZ's Dr Sonya Bodley says it means those affected can focus on their health and wellbeing, and brings New Zealand closer to international treatment guidelines.

She says access to these medicines provides more options, and reduces financial strains on patients and their families.