A consortium of health organisations has been awarded a new grant that will improve the use of biologic Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (bDMARDs).
The bDMARDs grant that is $8.4 million over three years will enable consumers to get the most benefits from these complex medicines.
“bDMARDs are a class of medicine that have made a significant improvement in the management of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and chronic dermatological conditions,” NPS MedicineWise CEO Adj Associate Professor Steve Morris said.
Arthritis Australia CEO Andrew Mills also explained that the project will be a great opportunity to optimise the benefits that those with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are getting from their medicines.
“The project will develop and deliver resources, tools and interventions to empower people to discuss their medicines with their doctor as part of a shared decision-making approach,” Mr Mills said.
The consortium consists of:
- Australia and New Zealand Musculoskeletal (ANZMUSC) Clinic Trials Network.
- Australian Rheumatology Association.
- Arthritis Australia.
- Cochrane Musculoskeletal.
- Council of Australian Therapeutic Advisory Groups.
- NPS MedicineWise.
- Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre at the University of South Australia.
- The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia.
“The project will not only increase collaboration between health practitioners, but also provide improved patient support and an increased focus on safe and quality use of these complex medicines,” said Pharmaceutical Society of Australia CEO Dr Shane Jackson.
