AMA calls for collaborative approach to solving PBS problems

"The PBS is a key part of the Australian health system that provides universal access to quality care," Dr Phelps said.

"It allows patients access to vital medicines that, because of cost, would otherwise be unavailable to them. But the PBS costs a lot of money to maintain and the costs are increasing.

"The trend of growth has been around 10-11 per cent, but in 2001 it was in the order of 19 per cent - due mainly to the inclusion of drugs such as Celebrex and Zyban.

"The increase in the cost of pharmaceuticals is a worldwide trend and will continue, but Australia still rates well against countries such as the UK, the US and Japan.

"To preserve an efficient and affordable PBS, consultation and planning involving Government and all stakeholders must start now," Dr Phelps said.

The AMA PBS Discussion Paper identifies key factors leading to PBS cost increases, including:

• Increases in the costs of individual drugs
• Increases in the rates of disease detection such as in the case of diabetes
• Australia's ageing population
• Growth in health concession schemes
• Greater community expectations, and
• Expansions in drug treatments.

Dr Phelps said any collaborative approach to solving PBS problems must be about developing solutions, not finding someone to blame. Solutions must involve providing doctors with independent timely advice about appropriate prescribing of new drugs.

"The AMA is keen to work with the Government to ensure the PBS is maintained as an integral part of the Australian health system well into the future," Dr Phelps said.

The AMA PBS Discussion Paper is available on the AMA website.

CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761