- 3 years ago
29 January 2024
The recommendations put forward in the HTA review options paper are a significant achievement. For the first time in more than 30 years, we have a substantial set of options for bold reform to enable Australians to have faster access to new medicines. This is meaningful progress and while the hard work is yet to come, it is a milestone we should celebrate.
Based on Medicines Australia’s own analysis of the 100+ submissions, the consistent themes that stood out included: improved and earlier consumer engagement, feedback on consumer input, the use of alternate data sources, greater transparency around decision making, and genuine fast-track pathways to access innovative therapies, particularly targeted and precision medicines.
Most of these themes are addressed in the options paper, which means the Reference Committee has listened and acted. On behalf of industry, I commend the Committee and give special thanks to Liz de Somer who continues to do an excellent job representing industry on top of her busy role as CEO of Medicines Australia.
As we enter the second round of consultations, we will continue to advocate strongly and remain clear on our reform asks, timelines for implementation, and how to prioritise actions that speed up patient access.
It is our vision that Australians have access to the latest medicines and vaccines through the PBS within 60 days of TGA registration.
We know this is achievable because many comparable markets have legislated or target similar timeframes for access to reimbursed medicines. For example, Switzerland targets 60 days for reimbursement following registration; England targets 90 days for guidance to be finalised following registration; and Japan has a target for reimbursement within 60 to 90 days following registration.
In our Roadmap of Reforms, Medicines Australia has outlined the system changes needed and realistic timeframes to achieve reform within three years. The key reform areas are consistent with those outlined in the options paper:
- A new provisional pathway and fund for new breakthrough medicines and a streamlined pathway for medicines that don’t require the full HTA process;
- Earlier involvement of patients, clinicians and industry in decision making, to improve quality and timeliness; and
- A transparent and equitable system with an evolved value framework, meaningful KPIs and improved transparency of the PBAC’s decision-making process.
Under each of these outcomes, system-wide reform is required at multiple levels. We know the devil will be in the detail when it comes time to designing and implementing each aspect of reform, but if we remain focused on a shared goal – equitable access for Australians to the latest medical technologies within 60 days of TGA registration – the question shifts from ‘what if’ to ‘how’.
We have a Government that has publicly stated it is committed to bold reform. In this next and final stage of consultations, it is incumbent on all stakeholders to consider how we design and drive the changes needed. This will take collaboration, compromise and – most importantly – unwavering commitment by everyone involved to achieve a future-focused PBS that delivers equitable access for Australians to the latest medical technologies within 60 days of TGA registration.
I always remember that the patients are waiting…
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