PSA Delisting Advice

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has issued information for consumers in the light of the PBS delisting of 17 types of medicines effective 01 Jan 2016. 

PSA president Joe Demarte said people who normally access these medications - such as paracetamol and aspirin - via a PBS prescription will now need to discuss the change with their pharmacist and be well prepared before it is effective. 

“Pharmacists know from previous experience that significant changes to PBS rules can create a number of problems for patients and carers.  “We are concerned about the financial impact in accessing some of these medicines, as they may end up costing patients more due to the delisting,” he said, with consumers set to reach the Safety Net later due to the change.

At the same time GlaxoSmithKline Director Healthcare Environment, David Herd, has confirmed that Panadol Osteo will no longer be reimbursed, saying the 01 Jan 2016 timeframe is “challenging”. He said GSK will work with health
professionals to “ensure consumers can continue to receive Panadol Osteo as a first line treatment for their osteoarthritis pain”.

Click here to see full Media Release.

Source:pharmacydaily.com.au, Wednesday 4 November 2015