One of the cornerstones of our health system is the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which helps Australians access thousands of medicines at government-subsidised prices.
Sadly, this 75-year-old scheme is no longer fit for purpose to meet the needs of many older Australians.
Right now, thousands of people with health conditions are waiting for medicines to be made available on the PBS. Australians wait on average 466 days for access to innovative medicines; three to four times longer than residents of many other countries.
Medicines Australia is campaigning for a major reform of the scheme. A #StrongerPBS will mean faster access to innovative medicines — and you can play an important role in bringing about this change.
“When my mum was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, genetic testing meant she qualified for a drug trial. That drug is now available for treatment of other cancers, but wouldn’t it be great if cancer patients could access new medicines more quickly?” — Robyn
It has been more than 30 years since the PBS has been comprehensively reviewed. There have been enormous leaps in science and innovation since the 1990s, and the current infrastructure simply does not reflect this.
This can mean excessive delays for important and groundbreaking new treatments, including medicines for cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
Not only could shorter wait times make a life-changing difference to those battling illness; it could also mean less pressure on our healthcare system, which is already struggling to meet the needs of an aging population.
Now is the single best opportunity to be heard.
The Federal Government recently conducted a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review – a review of the system which determines which medicines are funded on the PBS. Work is currently underway to implement the recommendations from the review.
If you would like to add your voice to ensure reforms are implemented, there are several quick and easy ways you can help:
Click here for more information on how to help improve access to medicines.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.
Join the #StrongerPBS campaign to support quicker access to cutting-edge medicines — and learn how you can play a part in creating a healthier future.
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