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Sonder77's avatar
Sonder77
Member
2 months ago

Oncotype DX and Ribociclib

The Oncotype DX test is highly effective at identifying the 70% of patients who can safely avoid chemotherapy and the 30% for whom chemotherapy is optimal. A sample of a tumour is sent to the US where the testing is done and I was told I needed to pay approx $5000.

I have recently been told by my oncologist that I need to pay approx $75000 for my medication called Ribociclib. Some Australian women will be able to access this medication through the PBS however due to not having metastatic breast cancer etc I am not eligible. I can pay the $75000 in installments of $2100 per month via a financial agreement with the pharmaceutical company.

How are women affording these treatments?. It doesn't make sense that these treatments are not funded for everyone. The financial pressure this puts my young family through is very difficult. Has anyone found a way around these costs?

* please note: the percentages and costs listed above were advised by an oncologist and are approximates.

treatment decisions

4 Replies

    • Katie46's avatar
      Katie46
      Member
      2 months ago

      Hi Owly​ 

      I am currently taking CDK4/6 inhibitor abemaciclib.

      My diagnosis was different as my cancer was IDC stage 2 grade 3 and had spread to 1 lymph node. I had lumpectomy, chemo, radiation, hormone blockers and abemaciclib. I  decided at the start I would take all the treatment available to me. I am 2 years post diagnosis. 

      Because I am at a higher risk of reoccurance I qualified for abemaciclib on the PBS, and my oncologist was very happy that they could offer it to me as the research is very positive for this drug.

      I'm viewing it as a extra layer of protection, and if some stray cells are still lurking it will either get rid of them or hold them off for longer. 

      It can be very overwhelming at times and hard to see the positives. It's a long journey, but there are lots of options and treatments available to us.

      We all have dark days, it's only natural with the diagnosis we have. 

      BCNA have a helpline available if you want to chat to someone about it.

       

  • kimhangodi's avatar
    kimhangodi
    Member
    2 months ago

     ribociclib (Kisqali) is on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of both advanced/metastatic breast cancer and early-stage breast cancer at high risk of recurrence. The listing for early breast cancer was expanded in July 2025, making it accessible for eligible patients with high-risk HR+/HER2- Stage 2 and 3, node-positive disease. The cost to the patient is significantly reduced through this listing. 

    For advanced/metastatic breast cancer: Ribociclib is listed for use in combination with a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant. 

    For early breast cancer: As of July 2025, it is listed for high-risk HR+/HER2- Stage 2 and 3, node-positive breast cancer, in combination with an aromatase inhibitor. 

    Patient cost: A script costs $41.30, or $6.60 for concession card holders. 

    Benefit: The PBS listing reduces financial barriers and expands treatment options for many Australians with breast cancer. 

  • cactusk's avatar
    cactusk
    Member
    2 months ago

    Hi Sonder77​ 

    Sounds like we have a very similar path - at least at this point. I too was recommended the Oncotype test - which after much discussion with my med onc and BC nurse, decided to go ahead with. I was very lucky that the result was strong - chemo was not going to benefit me enough at that stage. I was able to access Ribociclib on an early access program through my medical oncologist - as an early BC patient - not with mets. Double check with your oncology team - I believe that it was very recently listed as on the PBS for early patients at high risk of recurrence.

    I was on Ribociclib for 5 months, but sustained a significant liver injury. It's a known but uncommon side effect. I became very unwell - livers are indeed important things. I can no longer take this - but my med onc is not sure if the other CDK4/6 inhibitors would have the same side effect. 

    Absolute best wishes - i hope you can find a way to try this medication on PBS. 
    cactuskelly