AMA urges Coalition support on 60-day dispensing

The AMA has urged opposition leader Peter Dutton to clarify the Coalition’s stance on the federal government's 60-day dispensing policy.

AMA President Professor Steve Robson recently wrote to Mr Dutton amid growing concern the Coalition will attempt to block the changes in the Senate.

Professor Robson said it appeared the Coalition was capitulating to an irresponsible scare campaign that puts profits before patients.

“The current scare campaign makes some grossly irresponsible claims and pharmacy owners have a long history of opposition to 60-day dispensing, despite the significant benefits for patients,” Professor Robson said.

In the letter, Professor Robson warned Mr Dutton that a casual observer would easily conclude that the Coalition is opposed to the policy.

Professor Robson went on to say the opposition’s current rhetoric on 60-day dispensing suggested the Coalition is intent on having patients continue to absorb unnecessary financial pain.

The AMA will continue urging politicians to stick to the facts on 60-day dispensing — a policy that will save patients up to $180 a year on selected PBS medicines.