Doctors Reform Society National President, Dr Peter Davoren today said that the reported appointment of a former CEO of the Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturer's Association to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) indicates that the Federal Government is prepared to destroy a great success of the Australian health care system.

'Is the Government fair dinkum about getting necessary medications to Australians at an affordable price or is it blatantly presiding over the destruction of an expert committee, the envy of the world' asked Dr Davoren.

'The PBAC has ensured that all Australians have access to the best medicines at a reasonable price by way of the Federal Government subsidy scheme. The PBAC ensures that taxpayers get value for money by not paying too much for drugs and not paying for drugs of dubious merit' said Dr Davoren.

'The success of the Committee lay in its independence and freedom from commercial and government pressure. Allowing a pharmaceutical company representative onto the committee is very stupid. It will nullify the committees ability to resist pressure from the industry' claimed Dr Davoren.

For further information:

Dr Peter Davoren, President
Doctors Reform Society

Dr Con Costa, Vice President
Doctors Reform Society

1 Feb 2001

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