Dear Suzie
I lead the Policy Team at BCNA. I am sorry you don't feel we are supporting you on this issue. BCNA is very aware of the challenges in sexual wellbeing for some women as a result of breast cancer treatments. In 2011 BCNA commissioned a university researcher to undertake research with women and health professionals regarding sexual wellbeing and breast cancer. This research resulted in our booklet Breast cancer and sexual wellbeing, which is currently being updated and reprinted. You can read the research report on our website. We also write about this issue in The Beacon from time to time, most recently in the last edition as the Ask the Expert article.
With regards to getting YES on the PBS, BCNA is not able to make a submission to the PBAC (the authority that assesses applications for drugs to be added to the PBS and makes recommendations to the Government). Applications require detailed evidence of the safety and effectiveness of products and how they compare with other similar products already available on the Australian market. They require results from clinical trials to provide this evidence. BCNA has never made an application to the PBAC, although we frequently provide submissions in support of medicines and products for which an application is made by the manufacturer or Australian distributer.
YES is available to buy in Australia at around the same cost it would be if it was subsidised by the Government through the PBS. The current script fee for non-concession patients in 2017 is $38.80. YES is available in Australia from around $20 - $50.
I hope this helps to explain our situation. I am happy to talk to you about this if you would like to call our office on 1800 500 258 and ask for me.
Kathy
