23 hours ago
Do you have geographic atrophy?
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with geographic atrophy (GA), there is an opportunity to help shape the future of treatment access in Australia.
For the first time, an approved treatment for GA, Syfovre® (pegcetacoplan), is under consideration for government subsidy through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The Agenda has now been set for its review at the next Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) meeting in November 2025. With a call for comments now until 24 September, 2025, your story could be considered in their decision.
COMMENTS ARE BEING ACCEPTED UNTIL 24 SEPTEMBER 2025
Why your feedback matters
In January 2025, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved Syfovre® for use in adults with GA.
In its upcoming meeting, the PBAC will assess whether the treatment should be subsidised, making it more affordable and accessible for Australians, though listing on the PBS.
The Committee will evaluate its:
- Clinical effectiveness – based on clinical and economic evidence from the treatment sponsor, Apellis Australia
- Cost-effectiveness – do the health benefits justify the cost?
- Real-life impact – that’s where you come in.
Personal stories from patients, carers, families, healthcare professionals, and consumer groups will help the PBAC understand the true impact of GA on daily life, and why affordable access to treatment matters. Real stories can help decision-makers see beyond the data and understand the human side of the impact of GA.
How to have your say
There are two ways to share your story with the PBAC during its review:
1. Via the online survey. You can start the survey here.
- There is the option to upload a file with your submission.
2. Feedback can also be sent by emailing the survey in Word format, along with any relevant files, to commentsPBAC@health.gov.au
- You can find a Word version of the survey here.
Deadline: 24 September 2025
From Lab to Life
Not sure how the medicine approvals process works?
We have created two videos to simplify and summarise:
https://retinaaustralia.com.au/have-your-say-first-ga-treatment-being-considered-for-pbs-subsidy/
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