Multiple women’s health medications are set to become more affordable when they are officially added to the Australian government-subsidised list of medications, known as the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This initiative follows the recent announcement of the Albanese government's $573 million funding package for women’s health. Scheduled to take effect from May 1, 2025, these changes are geared to provide significant relief to thousands of Australian women facing high costs for necessary treatments.
Among the new additions is Slinda, drospirenone, the first progesterone-only oral contraceptive pill available under the PBS. Currently, around 80,000 women pay approximately $80 for three months' supply of Slinda. Under the PBS, this will drop to just $31.60 for four months, or $7.70 for concession card holders. Dr. Terri Foran, a sexual health physician, noted, "Progestogen-only pills are especially suitable for older women, women at increased risk of blood clots, those who suffer migraine attacks, breastfeeding mothers, those who smoke, are overweight, or have high blood pressure." This offers much-needed reassurance to women who experience difficulties with estrogen-based contraceptives.
Equally significant is the listing of Ryeqo (estradiol and norethisterone), which targets moderate to severe endometriosis pain. Affecting approximately one in seven women, endometriosis can cause debilitating pain and infertility. The medication, which currently costs up to $2,700 annually, will now be available to those who have struggled with other treatments at the substantially reduced co-payment of only $7.70 for concession holders and $31.60 for others. Nicolette Ellis, President of Chronic Pain Australia, highlighted, “These components collectively regulate estrogen and progesterone levels, addressing factors contributing to endometriosis pathology.” An estimated 8,500 women are expected to benefit from this listing.
Fertility treatments are also receiving long-awaited support. Starting April 1, 2025, Pergoveris (follitropin alfa with lutropin alfa), now only available for late-stage IVF cycles, will be subsidised for use earlier, providing access to patients when they most need it. The maximum number of prescriptions allowed has also been increased from two to four per IVF treatment, significantly easing the financial burden on families. Currently, the cost of four unsubsidised Pergoveris pens can exceed $3,500; under the PBS, patients will pay just $32 for their first treatment.
Mark Butler, the Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, expressed his commitment to improving women's health care, stating, "I’ve been hearing story after story from Australia's women... they feel they’ve just not been supported enough across various health issues". The positive impact of these measures is supported by Ged Kearney, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, who hopes these initiatives will help women feel heard and validated.
Providers are scrambling to understand and apply these new regulations, as General Practitioners (GPs) will need to issue new prescriptions for patients to qualify for PBS reimbursements starting May 1, 2025. Dr. Nisha Khot, of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, emphasized the importance of this transition. "These changes will allow doctors to prescribe the most effective medications for their patients without financial barriers limiting access." This is particularly relevant considering the increasing discussions around women’s health issues and the previous neglect experienced by patients.
One patient, Hoda Hannaway, who has been battling endometriosis for years, shared her struggles. “From when I was diagnosed, I can only say it’s been horrendous... it’s only recently, though, because of the stigma, the costs, I’ve been able to discuss with my doctor the treatment options.” The subsidies will enable many women like Hoda to receive the treatments they need without the heavy financial burden.
Dr. Petra Wale, President of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand, expressed optimism for the recent changes. "I think the changes are fantastic and will help reduce barriers for women needing fertility treatment." She noted the importance of acknowledging the fertility crisis Australia is currently facing, with the fertility rate dropping to 1.5 children per woman — well below the replacement rate. "The cost of assisted reproduction remains a major barrier for many families, particularly amid the cost-of-living crisis."
Critics have voiced concerns over delays. The PBS recommendation for Ryeqo, for example, was made over 12 months ago but only just approved, prompting opposition claims of governmental neglect. Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley criticized the government for the time taken to act on the recommendations. Butler defended the government's timeline, explaining the necessity of negotiation with the pharmaceutical company involved.
With these generous changes looming, the conversation around women's reproductive health is finally gaining the attention it deserves. Many women have felt sidelined when it came to their health, with conditions like endometriosis frequently overlooked. Through these new regulations and subsidised medications, the government aims to restore faith and provide tangible support to its constituents.
The anticipated adjustments are being met with hope and excitement from many quarters. All eyes are now on May 1, when progress becomes reality for thousands of Australian women. For those who have struggled with limited options, the inclusion of these medications on the PBS signifies not just financial relief, but validation and recognition of women's health needs.
