12 May 2009

The National Prescribing Service Ltd (NPS) has welcomed a funding enhancement from the Federal Government to expand on our quality use of medicines work.

NPS will receive additional funds over the next four years to continue programs that improve medicines use among Australians.

“This announcement acknowledges NPS’ role in providing accurate, independent information to health professionals and consumers. It also reflects the Government’s commitment to integrative and preventative health measures that benefit all Australians,” NPS CEO, Dr Lynn Weekes said.

“This was not an easy Budget for the nation, but through our continued work promoting the safe and effective use of medicines, NPS will contribute to long term savings.”

It was also announced in the Budget that NPS will receive funding to run a national diagnostic requesting service to promote best clinical practice for efficient use of diagnostic imaging and pathology tests.

“We are yet to determine the details with the Department of Health and Ageing but it is likely to reflect our successful quality use of medicines program model,” Dr Weekes said.

This includes decision support tools, implementation of evidence-based guidelines, peer feedback and educational programs designed to assist health professionals and consumers make the best health decisions.

“Diagnostic imaging and pathology programs are a logical expansion of our current work with health professionals. Ultimately we hope to run synergistic programs that link diagnostics with medicines, ensuring tests are used efficiently and result in the best outcomes for patients.”

“We look forward to working closely with industry stakeholders in this new and interesting area for NPS,” Dr Weekes said.

The additional funding includes $21 million over four years to enhance its existing work and $9.4 million over four years for the new diagnostics work.

Further detail about the work NPS will be doing over the next four years is expected to be announced in coming weeks.

ENDS