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Mark Butler's health problem with no fix

The article from the Australian Financial Review discusses the challenges faced by Health Minister Mark Butler in addressing the escalating costs of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Despite implementing a 60-day dispensing policy to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients, the policy has inadvertently increased the financial burden on the PBS. This has led to a projected $1.2 billion deficit over the next four years, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the scheme. The article highlights the tension between providing affordable medication and managing government expenditure, with Butler facing criticism from various stakeholders including pharmacists, who argue that the policy undermines their revenue. Additionally, the piece touches on the broader implications for healthcare policy, suggesting that without a comprehensive fix, the PBS might require significant reforms or increased funding to maintain its current level of service.

Read the Full The Australian Financial Review Article at:
[ https://www.afr.com/companies/healthcare-and-fitness/mark-butler-s-health-problem-with-no-fix-20241203-p5kvlh ]