Lifeline for patients: Access to breakthrough cancer drug now 99 per cent cheaper
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For many Australians, the battle against cancer is not just a fight for life but also a struggle against the financial burden that comes with treatment.
However, there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon for those diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer, as a life-saving medication has become significantly more affordable thanks to its recent inclusion in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
The drug was previously a costly treatment option, with patients facing a staggering $10,000 monthly expense.
This prohibitive cost placed immense pressure on individuals and families, often at a time when they were most vulnerable.
But now, the script price has been slashed to just $30, making it accessible to many more needy patients.
Ian Hill's story is a testament to the life-changing impact of this drug called Retevmo.
After a simple cough led to a diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer, Ian found himself bedridden and unable to engage in everyday activities with his children.
The traditional chemotherapy treatment he initially received was debilitating.
However, a breakthrough came when genetic testing revealed that Ian had a specific mutation known as R-E-T, or 'ret,' which occurs in about one to two per cent of lung cancer patients.
This discovery made him eligible for Retevmo, a drug with significantly fewer side effects than other treatments.
The inclusion of Retevmo on PBS is a milestone that offers new hope to approximately 130 patients each year, according to Health Minister Mark Butler.
The affordability of this drug means that effective treatment is no longer a privilege reserved for the wealthy.
Medical oncologist Dr Tom John emphasised the importance of this development.
‘Having a drug like this available on the PBS for all patients means that you don't have to be rich to get onto this,’ he said.
For Ian, the results of Retevmo have been nothing short of miraculous. 'It's effectively stopped the cancer within my body,' he shared.
The financial relief provided by the PBS listing means that Ian and his family can now focus on creating memories and enjoying their time together rather than worrying about the cost of medication.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this rare form of lung cancer, accessing Retevmo through PBS is straightforward.
Patients should consult with their oncologist to determine if they have the specific R-E-T mutation that makes them eligible for the treatment.
If eligible, the oncologist can prescribe Retevmo, and the cost will be covered under the PBS, ensuring that the medication is affordable.
In other news, the immunotherapy cancer treatment Tecentriq has also been included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, drastically lowering costs for lung and liver cancer patients across the country.
Prices have dropped from $120,000 annually to $133.40 for concession card holders and $547.70 for general patients. You can read more about it here.
Have you or someone you know been affected by the high cost of cancer medications? Share your experiences with us in the comments below. Your stories can provide support and hope to others navigating similar challenges.
However, there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon for those diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer, as a life-saving medication has become significantly more affordable thanks to its recent inclusion in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
The drug was previously a costly treatment option, with patients facing a staggering $10,000 monthly expense.
This prohibitive cost placed immense pressure on individuals and families, often at a time when they were most vulnerable.
But now, the script price has been slashed to just $30, making it accessible to many more needy patients.
Retevmo, a life-saving lung cancer drug, has been added to the PBS, reducing its cost from $10,000 to $30 per script. Credit: Depositphotos
Ian Hill's story is a testament to the life-changing impact of this drug called Retevmo.
After a simple cough led to a diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer, Ian found himself bedridden and unable to engage in everyday activities with his children.
The traditional chemotherapy treatment he initially received was debilitating.
However, a breakthrough came when genetic testing revealed that Ian had a specific mutation known as R-E-T, or 'ret,' which occurs in about one to two per cent of lung cancer patients.
This discovery made him eligible for Retevmo, a drug with significantly fewer side effects than other treatments.
The inclusion of Retevmo on PBS is a milestone that offers new hope to approximately 130 patients each year, according to Health Minister Mark Butler.
The affordability of this drug means that effective treatment is no longer a privilege reserved for the wealthy.
Medical oncologist Dr Tom John emphasised the importance of this development.
‘Having a drug like this available on the PBS for all patients means that you don't have to be rich to get onto this,’ he said.
For Ian, the results of Retevmo have been nothing short of miraculous. 'It's effectively stopped the cancer within my body,' he shared.
The financial relief provided by the PBS listing means that Ian and his family can now focus on creating memories and enjoying their time together rather than worrying about the cost of medication.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this rare form of lung cancer, accessing Retevmo through PBS is straightforward.
Patients should consult with their oncologist to determine if they have the specific R-E-T mutation that makes them eligible for the treatment.
If eligible, the oncologist can prescribe Retevmo, and the cost will be covered under the PBS, ensuring that the medication is affordable.
In other news, the immunotherapy cancer treatment Tecentriq has also been included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, drastically lowering costs for lung and liver cancer patients across the country.
Prices have dropped from $120,000 annually to $133.40 for concession card holders and $547.70 for general patients. You can read more about it here.
Have you or someone you know been affected by the high cost of cancer medications? Share your experiences with us in the comments below. Your stories can provide support and hope to others navigating similar challenges.
