The Australian federal government is set to include the oral contraceptive pill Slinda on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) starting May 1, providing significant financial relief for users. This initiative will decrease the cost of a four-month supply to $7.70 for concession card holders and $31.60 for general patients, compared to the previous out-of-pocket expense of approximately $80 for a three-month supply. This change is expected to save women hundreds of dollars annually.
Slinda, which is a commonly chosen birth control method, will join Yasmin and Yaz, which were recently added to the PBS, making it the third contraceptive pill included this year. Current estimates suggest that around 80,000 women in Australia are currently paying for Slinda out of their own pockets, according to Besins Healthcare Australia. Dr. Terri Foran, a sexual health physician, emphasised that access to a diverse range of contraceptive options is a crucial reproductive right and indicated that the inclusion of Slinda in the PBS will be positively received by many women and their healthcare providers.
Slinda employs a progestogen hormone, making it particularly suitable for older women or those with risk factors like blood clots, migraines, or high blood pressure. The addition of this contraceptive pill represents a significant advancement in the range of contraceptive choices available, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing women’s health services. This move aligns with the Albanese government’s recent commitment to allocate over half a billion dollars towards women’s health initiatives.
In summary, the government’s decision to subsidise Slinda on the PBS is a welcome development for many Australian women, easing financial burdens associated with contraceptive use and expanding access to essential health options.