PBS reforms must consider patients
AMA Vice President Dr Trevor Mudge, said today that despite defeat of the bill in the Senate to raise Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) charges, the Federal Government is continuing to create concern about the availability and cost of drugs.
Dr Mudge said, "the higher patient co-payments for PBS drugs should no longer be considered an option by the Federal Health Minister. What is needed is to sit down with the medical profession - which the Government has not done - and look for some sensible reforms. For example, frequently, new drugs will lead to cost savings on operations and hospitalisation.
"Suggestions by the Health Minister of limiting the introduction of new drugs will only further disadvantage the poorest and the sickest in the community.
"Older Australians will suffer physically, emotionally and financially if they feel their access to medication will be limited - they are the ones most in need of subsidised drugs to enhance and prolong their quality of life.
"The Government needs to completely review its health budget to focus on outcomes for patients. They cannot continue to progressively strip the real value out of core programs like Medicare and PBS and still claim to be providing the same levels of service.
Dr Mudge stressed the importance of ensuring that the PBS remains affordable for patients, rather than adding to the cost of the scheme.
"While it is welcome that the Government is looking at long-term funding, the AMA wants to see the focus include positive health outcomes for our progressively ageing community," Dr Mudge said.
CONTACT: Sarah Crichton (02) 6270 5472 / (0419) 440 076