PBS prescription costs drop from 1 January under Federal legislation

NEW Federal Government legislation will reduce the cost of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) prescriptions from 1 January.

Under the changes, the maximum PBS co-payment fall to $25, down from $31.60, easing pressure on household budgets.

The legislation follows advocacy from more than 20 health and community organisations, including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Patients Australia, Asthma Australia, Family Planning Alliance Australia and QENDO.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan welcomed the change and noted the bipartisan support behind the legislation.

“It’s great to see all sides of Government in agreement that improving access and affordability of medicine is a top priority.

“This was one of the first pieces of legislation to pass parliament after the election,” Mr Conaghan stated.

He also emphasised the importance of protecting regional pharmacy services.

“And importantly, it doesn’t come at the expense of the community pharmacist.

“In the regions where access to primary care providers can be challenging, maintaining a healthy network of community pharmacies is imperative.”

Local pharmacists say the changes will have a direct impact on patients who have been struggling to manage rising costs.

Coffs Harbour pharmacist Samuel Ledger said community pharmacies see the consequences of financial stress every day.

“Community pharmacists see the effects of the cost-of-living crisis on patients, with many struggling to afford their medicine.

“Skipping medication leads to poorer health outcomes – and making medicine more affordable will help us to create healthier communities,” Mr Ledger stated.

He said recent commitments by states and territories to expand the role of community pharmacists would further strengthen primary health care.

“Community pharmacies are the most accessible and convenient primary healthcare destination.”