From July 1, Australians affected by cystic fibrosis will find a life-changing treatment option more accessible at a significantly reduced cost. The medication Trikafta will be provided through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for both adults and children diagnosed with rarer mutations of the condition.
Previously, a year’s supply of Trikafta could exceed an eye-watering $250,000 without financial assistance. However, under the new PBS arrangements, patients will only need to pay a maximum of $31.60 per prescription or $7.70 for those holding a concession card. Additionally, from January next year, the maximum cost for PBS medicines will be lowered to $25 per script, according to Health Minister Mark Butler.
Butler expressed optimism about the impact of this pricing reform, highlighting that it represents significant progress for hundreds of Australians living with rare mutations of cystic fibrosis, including many children and their families. The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 180 individuals across Australia.
Jo Armstrong, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Australia, claimed that this move places Australia at the forefront of providing equitable access to cystic fibrosis treatments globally. She remarked that this development offers an opportunity for numerous Australians previously deprived of such transformative therapies to improve their quality of life and life expectancy dramatically. For those who have long advocated for access to this treatment, Armstrong noted, “this is more than a policy decision, it’s a transformational outcome.”
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition characterised by the production of abnormally thick and sticky mucus, affecting the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. If unmanaged, this can lead to severe, irreversible damage over time. The introduction of Trikafta under the PBS marks a vital step towards improving the lives of those impacted by this challenging disease.