Access to Medicines Working Group - 7 March 2024

Page last updated: 4 July 2024

The Access to Medicines Working Group (AMWG) met via videoconference on 7 March 2024. Attendees included representatives from Medicines Australia (MA), the pharmaceutical industry and the Department of Health and Aged Care (the Department).

The AMWG noted the international Health Technology Assessment (HTA) collaboration is at a preliminary stage and is examining similarities and differences in approaches. Any potential future work-sharing arrangements will only be undertaken with the support of sponsors.

The AMWG discussed an MA proposal on Risk Sharing Arrangements (RSA) reform, as part of commitments under the 2022-2027 Strategic Agreement to develop an RSA policy. The Department undertook to provide feedback to MA out-of-session before AMWG next meets.

The AMWG was presented with an overview of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) cost recovery arrangements for 2024-25, with public consultation on the draft 2024-25 Cost Recovery Implementation Statement to start in coming weeks.

Updates to the AMWG included progress with the HTA Policy and Methods Review. The AMWG noted that stakeholder submissions will be published (where consent given) and the final report to Government will be provided to HTA advisory committees at the Minister’s discretion.

The AMWG also discussed the implementation of 60-day prescriptions, including MA feedback on behalf of sponsors on challenges with preparing the supply chain for tranche 2. The AMWG noted the Department sought to notify companies at the earliest point possible and ensure medicines flagged with the TGA as in shortage are not included in advice to Government.

The AMWG will reconvene in August 2024.