Is the PBS of any use to young people, and if so how?Yes it is, a lot of medications like antiviral medications are covered by the PBS making them much more affordable for anyone with a Medicare card, sometimes saving you up to $120.
Why are some medications on the PBS and some not? Generally, what medications are covered by PBS?Generally, the Australian Government has tried to ensure that necessary and live-saving medications are covered by the PBS. Medications such as Viagra, weight-loss tablets and antifungal creams are not covered by the PBS. PBAC (Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee) is a committee that helps the Australian government decide which medications are on the PBS which aren’t. You can check out their website for more information.
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/publishing....What do I need to do to get medications through the PBS?When you visit your pharmacist, make sure you’ve got your prescription and Medicare card with you. Also, make sure if you have any healthcare concession cards or pension card from Centrelink that you hand that to your pharmacist as well with your prescription because this will entitle you to purchase your medications at a much cheaper price.
If I have a private health fund, will the medications be cheaper?Generally, if you have a Private Script (prescription) that is over the amount of $28.60, your private health fund will reimburse you for some of the cost. However, different health care funds have different entitlements so it’s a good idea to find out what you can claim from your health fund or ask your doctor and pharmacist.
Are both generics and the ‘brand’ named medications covered by the PBS?Yes they are.
What is the difference between generics and non-generics? If I get a generic am I getting medication of lesser quality?All medications need to be of a high standard and be OK’d by the Australian Government before they can be available for consumers. Therefore, there is no difference in quality between the generics and non-generics. Generics and non-generics are very similar medications that contain the same active ingredient(s), and in some cases are exactly the same as they come from the same manufacturer.
How can I get the best price for my medications (i.e. potentially save my money)?Ask for the generic when you hand over your prescription to the pharmacist, and if you have a health care card, show that, and your Medicare card to the pharmacist with the prescription.
What is a safety net?To assist people who purchase a lot of medications within a year, the government provides a safety net. This means that if you purchase over a certain amount of prescription medications within the year, you can purchase medications for the rest of the calendar year at a much lower cost.
Safety net for pensioners: 52 prescriptions.
For general: $874.90 (approx. 30 to 40 prescriptions).
How do I know that I’ve reached my safety net? Do I need to keep all my receipts?If you regularly go to one pharmacy, your prescription history should be recorded in their computer, so your pharmacist will tell you if you’ve reached your safety net. However, if you purchase a lot of prescription medications and you change pharmacies, you can ask for a safety net form and ask for ‘the stickers’ from the pharmacist to keep a record of your purchases.
If I have reached my safety net, do I need to do anything to get my medications at the safety net price?Once you’ve reached the safety net, the pharmacist will issue you with a safety net card. Whenever you purchase a medication thereafter, show the card with your prescription to receive the medication at the safety net price.
