Australian women will soon benefit from significantly reduced costs for essential reproductive health medications, with key treatments for contraception, endometriosis, and IVF being added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The move, effective from May 1, is expected to save patients thousands of dollars annually.
Among the newly subsidized medications are Slinda, a progesterone-only contraceptive pill for women unable to take estrogen-based contraceptives; Ryeqo, an advanced treatment for moderate to severe endometriosis pain; and Pergoveris, a crucial fertility drug used in IVF. These additions mark a significant expansion of government support for women’s healthcare.
Government Pledges Support for Women’s Health
Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the importance of this decision, stating, “These listings covering IVF, endometriosis, and contraception will improve the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of Australian women. Women have asked the government to take their healthcare seriously, and we have listened.”
Minister for Women Katy Gallagher echoed these sentiments, highlighting the government’s commitment to lowering healthcare costs and making treatment more accessible. “For too long, women have struggled to get support in health systems that were not built for them,” she said. “We recently delivered over half a billion dollars for women’s healthcare, and today we are continuing that work of delivering women more choice, lower costs, and better health care options.”
Financial Relief for Patients
The government estimates that over 100,000 women per year will benefit from these PBS listings. For instance, Ryeqo users, who previously faced costs exceeding $2,700 per year, will now have access to subsidized treatment. Similarly, women requiring Pergoveris for IVF—previously available only in later cycles—will now gain earlier access to treatment, potentially saving over $3,500 per cycle.
This latest announcement follows the recent PBS listing of Visanne, a drug that helps manage endometriosis by shrinking abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus. Experts, including gynecologist and endometriosis specialist Dr. Neisha Wratten, estimate that 400,000 to 500,000 Australian women could benefit from such measures.
Bipartisan Support for Women’s Health
The initiative has garnered bipartisan backing, with Nationals leader David Littleproud and Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley both expressing support. The Coalition has also proposed its own $580 million package for women’s health initiatives.
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, stressed that this move is about ensuring women feel heard and supported in the healthcare system. “Women across Australia have told us their pain and symptoms are often dismissed. We want to change that. No matter what stage of life you’re at, your healthcare is front and center.”
With these changes set to take effect, Australian women facing reproductive health challenges are poised to experience significant financial relief and improved access to critical medications.
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