The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has emphasised the essential role of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in ensuring Australian patients can afford essential medicines.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the PBS is one of Australia’s most important programs for health access and equity.
“The PBS, along with affordable access to high-quality specialist general practice care, is a crucial part of the Australian health system and critical in ensuring everyone has affordable access to the care they need,” Dr Wright said.
“As GPs, we know our patients can’t and shouldn’t pay the price of US-style healthcare. The PBS means when we prescribe the treatments our patients need, we know they will be able to access them at an affordable price.”
The college also praised the Federal Government’s staunch defence of the program in the face of pressure from overseas interests.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the PBS is “not for sale and is not up for negotiation” and protected by Australia’s free trade agreement with the US after US drug companies criticised the PBS in a US government submission.
On Friday, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Federal Government has been “clear that we’re not prepared to negotiate or diminish or weaken the PBS” from the G20 meeting in South Africa.
“The power of the PBS to deliver affordable medicines cannot be up for negotiation,” Dr Wright said.
“The PM and Treasurer are right to back it in the face of pressure from overseas interests.
“Healthcare is a fundamental right, and we should all be steadfast in our support for the PBS.
“Australia is a small piece of in the global market for medicines, but the PBS means we speak with a powerful voice.
“Medicare and the PBS both must be strong to deliver affordable healthcare.”
~ENDS
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The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is the peak representative organisation for general practice, the backbone of Australia’s health system. We set the standards for general practice, facilitate lifelong learning for GPs, connect the general practice community, and advocate for better health and wellbeing for all Australians.
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