The Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (GBMA) has announced respected and experienced health policy leader, Jane Halton AO PSM, as its inaugural Independent Chair.
“To return to my domestic health policy roots, and lead the GBMA at such a significantly important time for Australian patients and our vital healthcare community, is a challenge I am delighted to embrace,” says Ms Halton.
“As we look to the arrival of a Covid-19 vaccine for our citizens, we also need to be vigilant that all Australians continue to receive the medicines they need, when they need them,” she says.
Ms Halton who has overseen 13 health budgets says she is keen to forge a national understanding of the role generic and biosimilar medicines play as the ballast for a sustainable Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
CEO of the GBMA, Marnie Peterson, adds the GBMA board and its members, are thrilled Ms Halton will lead the peak body through an unpredictable and rapidly shifting health, policy and economic landscape.
“Jane is respected as a health and economic policy powerhouse in Australia and globally,” says Ms Peterson.
“To end such a traumatic year with Jane as our first Independent Chair is absolutely wonderful news and we know governments, patients, clinicians, hospitals and pharmacists alike will also applaud Jane’s return to the Australian medicine policy front line.”
On behalf of the Board, Ms Peterson paid tribute to the outgoing Chair, Mr Sylvain Vigneault.
Ms Peterson describes Mr Vigneault’s insights, experience and support, over more than two years, as highly valued by the membership, throughout a significant time for the association and particularly during this pandemic.
