PSA welcomes the Australian Digital Health Agency’s invitation for Australians to join My Health Record, as well as the listing of four new cancer medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) over the weekend.

From today, Australians can choose if they want to receive a My Health Record—an online summary where they can securely store and share key information about their health—by the end of the year.

On Sunday 15 July, the Government also announced a $250 million investment to list cancer medicines Opdivo, Imbruvica, Neulasta and Pegasys on the PBS from 1 August, saving patients thousands of dollars per year.

PSA National President Dr Shane Jackson said these significant commitments to healthcare management and medicines affordability will support pharmacists, as the medicines experts, to provide ongoing patient care.

“These announcements are a major breakthrough for Australia’s healthcare system,” Dr Jackson said.

“My Health Record will empower Australians to take ownership of their health information by managing privacy and controlling who has access to their health information.

“Pharmacists now will be able to more actively support patients with their medication management needs, especially those with complex chronic disease.
These patients often take multiple medications and a connected My Health Record system will ensure health professionals have the information they need at the point of care to support patients with their healthcare.

“Pharmacists have a vital role to play wherever medicines are used, and PSA, as the peak national body for pharmacists, is collaborating with the Agency to help pharmacists guide their patients through this important decision.

“The information in My Health Record will allow pharmacists to provide better coordinated care for their patients, which is why over 3,200 pharmacies are already connected to the system.”

Dr Jackson said, “The new PBS listings will give Australians fast and affordable access to life-saving medicines through their local pharmacist.”