Australian Government Expands Subsidies for Women's Health Medications

New funding will make contraceptives, endometriosis treatments, and IVF therapies significantly more affordable for thousands of women starting in April and May.

• The oral contraceptive pill 'Slinda,' a progestogen-only option, will be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) starting May 1, reducing costs from $250 to as low as $7.70 per script for concession holders.
• Slinda is particularly beneficial for women unable to take estrogen-based contraceptives due to health risks like blood clots or high blood pressure.
• Endometriosis treatment 'Ryeqo,' currently costing up to $2,700 annually, will also be subsidized on the PBS from May 1, lowering costs to between $92 and $380 per year for eligible patients.
• IVF patients with low reproductive hormone levels will gain earlier access to Pergoveris treatment starting April 1, with costs reduced from over $3,500 to $31.60 per script under the PBS.
• These measures are part of the Albanese government's $573 million commitment to women's health, which aims to address long-standing gaps in affordable reproductive healthcare.

5 Articles

9News The Guardian SBS News The Sydney Morning Herald Australian Broadcasting Corporation