Sharman Stone MP

Drugs on the PBS scheme receive a government subsidy when bought over the counter.

 

The Gillard Government has squandered over $AUS80billion creating massive debt which has unfortunately left insufficient funds to subsidise the latest medications.

 

“The Gillard Government has turned its back on more than half a century of medicines support, and subsequently the most vulnerable in society, may not be able to afford the medicines they need.” Sharman Stone said.

 

“I can not imagine how terrible it would be for a family not to be able to buy the medicines for a sick child,” Sharman Stone said.

 

Prime Minister Gillard has ignored the advice of her own expert committee, by freezing new listings. All six new drugs that were approved by the government's Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee for inclusion on the PBS were rejected by cabinet. 

 

“Surely new medicine that has been proved effective should be made available at affordable prices?” Sharman Stone said.

 

The sick are the latest in a long line of Australians to ‘pay the price’ for the reckless spending and debt of the Gillard Government.

 

The Gillard Government should review their PBS decision and keep the latest vaccines and drugs into our pharmacies allow lower income earners access to the best drugs and vaccines available. They must accept the damage this cutback will cause and lift the PBS freeze immediately. 

 

Media Contact: Jonathan Clark 0417 148 110