For the first time in three decades, women in Australia living with endometriosis will have access to a new treatment under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Dienogest, branded as Visanne, will now be listed as a subsidized medication for treating this painful and often debilitating condition.
Visanne, a daily tablet, works by reducing the growth of abnormal tissue associated with endometriosis, offering hope to many women suffering from the condition. Endometriosis, which affects approximately one in seven Australian women, can cause severe pain, infertility, and long-term health complications. While there is no cure, effective treatment options like Visanne are crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
The Australian government’s decision to list Visanne on the PBS is a significant step toward addressing the needs of the more than 40,000 women who are hospitalized each year due to endometriosis. Without PBS subsidy, the cost of this medication could reach up to $750 per year, making it unaffordable for many women.
In addition to the introduction of Visanne, the Albanese Government has committed over $107 million to improving care for women with endometriosis. This investment includes the establishment of 22 specialized Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics across the country, providing integrated care, early intervention, and a variety of treatment options.
The government has also focused on personalized care by creating individual Endometriosis Management Plans for women, supporting endometriosis research, and launching initiatives to raise public awareness. Further, new Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items will provide extended consultations and increased rebates for specialist gynecological care, helping to improve access to quality treatment.
These initiatives, alongside the PBS listing of Visanne, form part of a comprehensive national strategy to support women with endometriosis and ensure they receive the best possible care and treatment options. Since July 2022, the Australian Government has also approved 277 new and amended PBS listings, recommended by the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, to improve access to necessary medications for a range of conditions, including endometriosis.
With these new measures in place, the Australian Government aims to improve the lives of women suffering from endometriosis, offering more affordable and accessible treatment options and enhancing overall support for this long-overlooked health issue.
Related topics:
What is the Reason for Not Getting Pregnant?
