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Private prescriptionsPrivate prescriptions
Most prescription medicines are covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), and cost $4.60 if you have a concession card, and up to $28.60 if you don’t. PBS medicines are subsidised by the Australian Government.
Occasionally, your doctor may prescribe a medicine that’s not covered by the PBS. Prescriptions for these medicines are known as ‘private prescriptions’, and they comprise about 5% of all prescriptions.
Private prescription medicines are not subsidised by the Government, so they may cost more than you’re used to paying for medicines. Their cost varies from medicine to medicine, and often from pharmacy to pharmacy, so it may be worthwhile checking out their cost at a couple of pharmacies before buying.
Your doctor may suggest a private prescription if they believe there is no suitable medicine for you on the PBS. Alternatively, the medicine they recommend may be listed on the PBS, but only under certain circumstances. If you don’t fit those circumstances, they can’t prescribe it to you on the PBS.
As with all prescription medicines, it’s important to use your private prescriptions wisely. Ask your pharmacist for information about them, and don’t forget to mention them whenever a health professional asks you about the medicines you’re taking.
The money you spend on private prescriptions doesn’t count towards the PBS Safety Net. If the cost is a problem, ask your doctor if any PBS medicines or other treatments may be suitable. If you have private health insurance, your fund may pay part or all of the cost of private prescriptions.
MedicinesTalk is a free quarterly newsletter for consumers written by consumers about using medicines wisely. Subscribe to the hard copy version using our online ordering system, or write to MedicinesTalk, National Prescribing Service Limited, PO Box 1147, Strawberry Hills, NSW 2012.
Date published: 2005-09-01 00:00:00
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.
References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.
