Expanded PBS listings for lung cancer and a chronic skin disease
oliver.kuskie@…
Mon, 2024-06-24 10:53
Australians with non-small cell lung cancer and the chronic skin disease hidradenitis suppurativa, now have access to expanded treatment options under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Osimertinib (Tagrisso®) has been expanded for use as additional therapy after surgery for patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation positive early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
In Australia, about 85 per cent of all diagnosed lung cancers are NSCLC. This makes it the most common type of lung cancer.
Tagrisso is a targeted therapy which works by stopping the growth of cancer cells with the EGFR mutation and may also help prevent the cancer returning after removal by surgery.
Around 320 patients are expected to benefit from this listing each year. Without subsidy, they might pay around $220,000 per course of treatment.
Secukinumab (Cosentyx®) has also been expanded to treat moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic and painful inflammatory skin disease.
Symptoms may include painful lumps and boils which usually form in areas where the skin rubs together such as under the breasts, the armpits, inner thighs, groin and buttocks.
In 2023, around 1,750 patients accessed a comparable treatment through the PBS. Without subsidy, patients might pay around $18,000 per year of treatment.
The PBS listings of these medicines means eligible patients will pay a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card.
Since July 2022, the Australian Government has approved extra funding for 201 new and amended listings on the PBS.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“The Albanese Government is making sure Australians have ready and affordable access to the latest treatments.
“By expanding the listings of these medicines on the PBS, we’re giving patients and their doctors new options for treatment without breaking the bank.
“It’s part of our Government’s commitment to keep medicines cheaper for Australians and live healthier lives, for longer.”
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