Australian women will gain improved access to affordable long-acting reversible contraceptives beginning November 1, 2023. Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) will enable approximately 300,000 women annually to save up to $400 in out-of-pocket expenses. This initiative targets methods such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and birth control implants, making these options more financially accessible.
For the first time, the contraceptive product NuvaRing, a soft plastic vaginal ring containing hormones oestrogen and progestogen, will also be included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Women who previously faced annual costs exceeding $270 will now pay $31.60 per prescription for a three-month supply, with a concessional rate of $7.70. Furthermore, starting January 1, 2024, the maximum price per prescription will decrease to $25.
Government Commitment to Women’s Health
Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing women’s health needs, which have often been overlooked. “For too long, women’s health needs were sidelined, but the Albanese Government is changing that and delivering more choice, lower costs, and better health care,” he stated. Butler noted that Australia has one of the lowest uptake rates of long-acting contraceptives among developed nations, attributing this to challenges related to access and affordability.
The government will also provide free training for health practitioners on the insertion and removal of IUDs, increasing the number of qualified professionals and enhancing service availability. This initiative aims to eliminate barriers to accessing these essential health services.
Women Minister Katy Gallagher echoed Butler’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of empowering Australian women with “genuine choice” concerning their reproductive health. She stated that this choice should not be dictated by financial constraints or access limitations.
The reforms are expected to significantly impact women’s health decisions across Australia. By reducing costs and improving accessibility, the government aims to ensure that women can make informed choices about their contraceptive options, ultimately promoting better health outcomes.
