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Prescribing for up to 12 months allowed for some medicines for some people with chronic conditionsPrescribing for up to 12 months allowed for some medicines for some people with chronic conditions
Published 2008-12-01 00:00:00
The period for which a PBS prescription (with repeats) can be written has increased from 6 to 12 months — for some medicines prescribed for some people with chronic conditions.
People with a stable chronic condition whose care is being managed by a general practitioner management plan or team care arrangement are eligible to receive up to 12 months’ supply of some medicines in accordance with their GP’s clinical judgement. The prescribing GP must be satisfied that there will be adequate follow-up.
No increased maximum quantities and/or repeats are allowed with these new PBS listings.
The first medicines were listed under the new arrangement on 1 November 2008, followed by a second group of medicines on 1 December 2008. Some diagnostic agents will be added on 1 January 2009 (see Box 1).
Box 1: Medicines that may be prescribed for up to 12 months under the new arrangement*
|
From 1 November 2008 |
Some eye preparations (e.g. for dry eye) Sulfasalazine |
|
From 1 December 2008 |
Some digestive enzyme capsules (e.g. for cystic fibrosis) Statins (excluding rosuvastatin) Fibrates Bile-acid sequestrants |
|
From 1 January 2009 |
Some diagnostic agents (e.g. glucose test strips) |
* Refer to the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits
Date published: 2008-12-01 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.
