New drugs added to PBS
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I was pleased to see the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt’s announcement over the weekend that the Government will invest $80 million in eye medications through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), helping people improve and preserve their vision.
From November 1, 2018, patients will get new subsidised treatment options for a range of eye conditions.
The medication Ozurdex is being listed for the treatment of blocked veins in the retina due to a condition known as retinal vein occlusion, which leads to varying degrees of vision loss. This medicine will benefit patients who would normally pay around $5000 a year for this treatment or more than $1350 per script.
Under the PBS they will pay a maximum of $39.50 per script, with concessional patients, including pensioners, paying just $6.40.
In addition, the current PBS listing for the medication Lucentis will be expanded for patients suffering a condition that is associated with unwanted growth of new blood vessels in the eye that impact vision and a type of extremely acute near-sightedness.
This medicine, which would normally cost up to $7000 a year, will be available for $39.50 per script, with concession patients paying only $6.40.
These listings have the potential to preserve the precious sight of patients. It will make a difference to patients and their families who are battling poor and deteriorating vision due to a range of diseases.
Since coming into Government, the Coalition has helped improve the health of Australians by subsidising close to $10 billion worth of new medicines.
Our commitment to the PBS is rock solid. Together with Medicare, it is a foundation of our world-class health care system.
Bonny Hills pharmacy petition
Also last week I presented a petition signed by nearly 3,000 locals seeking a new pharmacy license in Bonny Hills.
The petition highlights the fact that this community is without reasonable access to the supply of pharmaceutical benefits by an approved pharmacist.
Health affects everyone. We have one of the older demographics in the country in the Lyne electorate, and the beautiful area of Bonny Hills, nestled between the Camden Haven River and Lake Cathie, really could do with more services. It's growing at an amazing rate.
There are new subdivisions popping up along the coastline all the time. So a pharmacy there would be a great addition to quality of life as people wouldn't have to travel south or north to find a pharmacy.
The rules need to be applied, but this is right on the borderline of the distance. I have also made formal representation to Minister Hunt detailing the request.