The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the Morrison Government’s 2020-21 Federal Budget commitment to pharmacists with a new medicines listing guarantee and supply chain reforms.
Acting PSA President Michelle Lynch says the $2.8 billion investment over four years for a new medicines listing guarantee will improve access to medicines for all Australians.
“The guaranteed listing of all new medicines recommended by the PBAC gives patients certainty that new and lifesaving medicines are available on the PBS,” she says.
“The PBS Unique Identification Framework will allow improved medicine safety by allowing the assessment and tracking of medicines when they come into Australia, through to dispensing of medicines to patients.
“This will support medicine recalls and reduce the potential for counterfeit medicines.”
PSA also acknowledges the budget secures funding for the 7CPA, providing $18.3 billion for the delivery of medicines and patient-focused programs for the safe and quality use of medicines.
Also announced was significant investment in aged care which includes a record 23,000 home care packages, delivered at a cost of $1.6 billion as well as $5.7 billion to be spent on mental health in 2020-21.
Ms Lynch says these measures lay the groundwork for the future with the opportunity for pharmacists to do more in medicine safety in areas including mental health and aged care.
PSA also welcomes the $22.5 million investment in improving the use of antimicrobials supporting the government’s commitment to medicine safety as Australia’s 10th National Health Priority Area.
This will help to monitor and reduce the threat of antimicrobial resistance in Australia.
