PBS+-+restrictions+and+authority

=PBS - Restriction and authority=

//Explain restricted, unrestricted, authority PBS scripts //

Pharmaceutical benefits listed in the Schedule fall into three broad categories: //Unrestricted benefits// –have no restrictions on their therapeutic uses; //Restricted benefits// –can only be prescribed for specific therapeutic uses (noted as Restricted benefit); and //Authority required benefits// –Authority required benefits fall into two categories:
 * //Authority required benefits// are restricted benefits that require prior approval from Medicare Australia or the DVA (noted as **Authority required**)
 * //Authority required (STREAMLINED) benefits// are restricted benefits that do not require prior approval from Medicare Australia or the DVA but require the recording of a streamlined authority code (noted as **Authority required** **(STREAMLINED)**).


 * Restrictions**
 * Restrictions are used to target drugs to those indications, patient groups or clinical settings which achieve the optimum clinical and cost effectiveness
 * A drug may be acceptably cost effective when used for one indication or patient group but not cost effective when used under other circumstances


 * Examples of restrictions - initiation and continuing treatment**
 * Cholinisterase inhibitors in dementia
 * use of mini-mental scores
 * Imatinib in chronic phase CML
 * Continuing therapy will require evidence of continuance of cytogenic response annually
 * Etanercept/infliximab for RA
 * must have failed other treatment options and continuation depends on the attainment of an ACR 50

Resources
[|AP401 - PBAC and PBS] [|PBS - Information for Prescribers]