Australians battling non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the chronic skin condition hidradenitis suppurativa now have access to expanded treatment options under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
The PBS has broadened its coverage to include osimertinib (Tagrisso®) for use as additional therapy post-surgery for patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive early-stage NSCLC. This expansion is significant given that NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer diagnoses in Australia, making it the most prevalent form of lung cancer.
Tagrisso, a targeted therapy, halts the growth of cancer cells with the EGFR mutation and may prevent the recurrence of cancer following surgical removal. This new listing is expected to benefit around 320 patients annually, who would otherwise face costs of approximately $220,000 per course of treatment without the subsidy.
Additionally, the PBS has extended its coverage to include secukinumab (Cosentyx®) for the treatment of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic and painful inflammatory skin disease. Symptoms of this condition often include painful lumps and boils in areas where skin rubs together, such as under the breasts, armpits, inner thighs, groin, and buttocks.
In 2023, about 1,750 patients received comparable treatment through the PBS. Without the subsidy, patients could incur costs of around $18,000 per year for treatment.
With the new PBS listings, eligible patients will pay a maximum of $31.60 per prescription, or just $7.70 with a concession card.
Since July 2022, the Australian Government has approved funding for 201 new and amended listings on the PBS, demonstrating a commitment to making essential medications more affordable and accessible.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“The Albanese Government is ensuring Australians have ready and affordable access to the latest treatments. By expanding the listings of these medicines on the PBS, we’re providing patients and their doctors with new treatment options without breaking the bank. It’s part of our Government’s commitment to keep medicines cheaper for Australians and help them live healthier lives for longer.”
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