HTA Review delivers promise of faster patient access to the best medicines
10 September 2024: The Review of Australia’s health technology assessment policies and methods opens the door to improved access to new medicines and vaccines for Australians through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
The Review, released today by the Albanese Government, outlines 50 recommendations for reforms needed to improve systems and pathways to accelerate patient access.
The Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, also confirmed an independent implementation group will be appointed to drive forward the reforms.
Medicines Australia CEO Liz de Somer was industry’s representative on the HTA Review Reference Committee and said the recommendations will make a significant difference to Australians once implemented as a complete package.
“The recommendations reflect what has been the most comprehensive review of Australia’s HTA in more than 30 years. The input from stakeholders has been tremendous and provided a clear picture of where improvement is needed,” Ms de Somer said.
The Review found there is urgent need for system reform, with patients experiencing profound negative consequences caused by delays in access to new treatments.
“Without these changes Australians will continue to miss out on the best medicines available now and the revolutionary treatments that are on the horizon. System-wide reform will deliver a Stronger PBS for all Australians,” Ms de Somer said.
There is strong recognition throughout the report that system-wide reform is needed to address inequities in patient access, improve timely access to medicines, encourage companies to bring innovative medicines to Australia, and improve engagement with patients to value what matters to them.
The recommendations also recognise investment is needed to boost HTA capability to create sustainability and equip the system to evaluate emerging technologies into the future.
Industry will continue to work with the Government to develop effective key performance indicators and comparator selection, and to finding a solution to discount rate.
“Medicines Australia welcomes the Government’s commitment to pushing on with reforms through an implementation group,” Ms de Somer said.
“Industry stands ready to constructively participate in the implementation group alongside patients, patient advocacy groups, clinicians and the Government. We need an implementation plan and timelines, and we need to begin the co-design work that is needed to deliver these reforms.”
“We cannot lose reform momentum, patients are waiting.”
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Media enquiries to Kate McKeown, Senior Manager Communications and Media – kate.mckeown@medicinesaustralia.com.au or 0408 775 288.