PBS must be quarantined from U.S. free trade deal - AMA
AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said today that the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) must be quarantined from any free trade agreement negotiated with the United States.
Dr Phelps said around 40 US officials are in Canberra this week for talks on a proposed free trade deal and that some major US drug companies are advocating changes to our PBS as part of this deal.
"These trade negotiations must not threaten the PBS's role in providing affordable access to necessary and cost effective medicines for all Australians," Dr Phelps said.
"The PBS ensures that Australians continue to have health outcomes among the best in the world.
"The PBS eases the pressure on our public hospital system by ensuring the poorest and the sickest in our community have access to life-saving and life-enhancing medicines, minimising the need for hospitalisation.
"Our investment in the PBS pays huge dividends in terms of a healthier Australia.
"The AMA is calling on Trade Minister, Mark Vaile, to defend Australia's PBS against any efforts by American pharmaceutical companies to put profits ahead of healthy Australians," Dr Phelps said.
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