We applaud the government's boost to women's health but have real concerns over plans for trials that side-step best practice medical prescribing.
The federal government's announcement of a $500 million Medicare funding boost for long-term contraceptives is a significant step forward for women's health.
In a media statement, AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said, "Long-acting reversible contraceptives are the safest and most effective form of contraception, and we are pleased to see the federal government commit to a boost in Medicare funding that will provide greater access to intrauterine contraceptive devices and implants, particularly through general practice.
"We are also pleased to see the listing of new oral contraceptive pills and menopausal hormone therapies on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from March 1, which will provide almost immediate savings for women."
Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler also announced that 250,000 concession cardholders will be able to consult a trained pharmacist at no cost for treatment of uncomplicated UTIs and, if medications are required, pay only the usual medicine cost.
We are disappointed the federal government is following state and territory governments in announcing funding for two national trials that side-step best practice, medical prescribing and proven oversight for some treatments for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and oral contraceptives for certain women.
"We strongly oppose these trials being implemented in states and territories, due to the fragmentation of care and the undermining of the role of family GPs, who are more qualified to guide the treatment of UTIs," Dr McMullen said.
"The Therapeutic Goods Administration has previously said the risks of the pill mean it should only be prescribed by a doctor, and we note that the government's commitment only extends to supporting eligible patients who have already been prescribed oral contraception by a GP.
"With better access to long-acting reversible contraceptives, patients should really be having a conversation with their GP about what is the safest and most effective option for them, and this includes concession card holders who often face no out-of-pockets costs for a visit to a GP."
Last year, we made a strong call for action to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs to improve equality for women suffering from menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms in Australia.
