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

Why are new medicines taking so long to reach us?

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.

How you can help create a #StrongerPBS

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:

• Sign up with the Stronger PBS campaign here. In doing so, you can pledge your support to cutting PBS wait times from 466 days to 60 days, once a new medicine is deemed safe and effective.
• If you have been personally affected by lack of access to medicines, you can share your own experience with Medicines Australia via StrongerPBS@medicinesaustralia.com.au.
• Ask your general practitioner (GP) or pharmacist about the campaign on your next visit.
• Spread awareness on social media using the #StrongerPBS hashtag.
• Ensure your friends, family, and anybody directly affected by PBS limitations are aware of the campaign and its importance.

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.