60 DAY DISPENSING - A BENEFIT OR THE NEW TOILET PAPER CRISIS?

27 April 2023

The government yesterday announced a budget savings measure that some medications will be available for 60 days’ supply purchase at once, rather than the current standard 30 days.

For someone living on long term daily medications they would welcome any savings and supply relief, however, will the change benefit consumers or will it be like toilet paper during the pandemic? Some getting more and others missing out. How will the government guarantee supply?

“From the consumer’s perspective, those who rely on medicines, I hope this is not another toilet paper crisis, where some have plenty and others not enough”, CEO of Painaustralia, Giulia Jones said.

“This is news that people living with chronic pain can see the benefit of, however, the devil as always will be in the detail.”

“We have over the past several years seen some shortages and supply chain problems and some medications are scarce.”

“If we change from 30 to 60 days dispensing how will the government manage supply?”

“Which consumers will get prioritised in this system? Which ones will turn up to the pharmacy and find stock is not available? How will that be managed? How much medicines in the home will be considered safe and will the government also undertake education and public information campaigns along with the change to address safe storage of medicines in the home?”

Will regional and rural pharmacies be able to wear the change in business finances?

According to research, approximately 8% of consumers will benefit from lower costs. And this will be welcome for them.

Yes, it is true the government will save money from this change; paying fewer dispensing fees. Some consumers will benefit but will consumers overall come out better off, it’s really not certain at this point.

There are many questions to be answered.

 

Media enquiries please contact Giulia Jones on 0439 958 298