Australia's Medicine Shortage: A Case of Chronic Underinvestment The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) was once a beacon of hope for Australians struggling with life changing conditions, providing access to essential medications at a fraction of their cost.
However, in recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged: an increasing number of vital medicines are being left out of the PBS.
According to Medicines Australia's latest report, 18 key innovative treatments – including those for cancer, mental illness, and rare diseases – have failed to secure subsidy under the PBS.