$80 million investment in eye medication

The Morrison Government will invest $80 million in eye medications through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), helping those living in Bonner improve and preserve their vision.

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta said from 1 November 2018, patients will get new subsidised treatment options for a range of eye conditions.

The medication Ozurdex® is being listed for the treatment of blocked veins in the retina due to a condition known as retinal vein occlusion, which leads to varying degrees of vision loss.

“This medicine will benefit patients in Bonner who would normally pay around $5,000 a year for this treatment or more than $1,350 per script,” Mr Vasta said.

“Under the PBS they will pay a maximum of $39.50 per script, with concessional patients, including pensioners, paying just $6.40.”

In addition, the current PBS listing for the medication Lucentis® will be expanded for patients suffering a condition that is associated with unwanted growth of new blood vessels in the eye that impact vision and a type of extremely acute near-sightedness.

“Local patients in Bonner will be able to access this medicine, which would normally cost up to $7,000 a year, for maximum of $39.50 per script, with concessional patients paying only $6.40.

“These listings have the potential to preserve the precious sight of patients. It will make a difference to patients and their families who are battling poor and deteriorating vision due to a range of diseases.”

Minister for Health, Greg Hunt said since coming into Government, the Coalition has helped improve the health of Australians by subsidising close to $10 billion worth of new medicines.

“Our commitment to the PBS is rock solid. Together with Medicare, it is a foundation of our world-class health care system,” Minister Hunt said.