The referendum was called after doctors groups opposed the creation of the PBS. The 1946 Pharmaceutical Benefits referendum was one of the most significant healthcare decisions in Australia’s history.
The PBS ensures Australians can access affordable medicines regardless of their income or where they live. Since the PBS was created, more than 8 billion PBS prescriptions have been dispensed in community pharmacies across Australia.
Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President Professor Trent Twomey said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values that underpin Australia’s healthcare system.
“Eight billion PBS prescriptions represent eight billion moments where Australians have received affordable access to the medicine they need to stay healthy,” Professor Twomey said.
“The PBS is one of Australia’s greatest public policy successes. It ensures patients can access life-changing medicines at an affordable price while maintaining a healthcare system that puts people before profits.”
Professor Twomey urged the government to take action to freeze the price of medicines at $25.
“Medicine needs to be affordable. The government did a great thing last year in reducing the price of medicine to $25 – now’s the time to commit to freeze the price of medicine.”
Professor Twomey said community pharmacies had been instrumental in turning the promise of the PBS into reality.
“For 80 years, community pharmacies have been the frontline of medicine access in Australia. Pharmacists are not simply dispensing medicines. They are providing clinical advice, identifying medicine-related problems and supporting patients to use their medicines safely and effectively.”
Professor Twomey warned that Australians should not take the success of the PBS and Australia’s community pharmacy network for granted.
“Australians have consistently rejected healthcare models that prioritise commercial interests over patient outcomes. Medicines are not ordinary products and healthcare should never be reduced to a transaction.”
