Jenny Abraham’s world shrank during the pandemic, but it wasn’t just because of the rolling lockdowns.
Jenny Abraham, a Sydney woman, struggled with pericarditis worsened by COVID-19 and vaccine reactions. The $1200-a-month drug Anakinra improved her condition dramatically, allowing her to resume activities she had previously abandoned. However, the drug is not subsidized for pericarditis in Australia, unlike in the US and Europe.
Abraham faced challenges in accessing the medication due to its high cost, emphasizing the need for faster inclusion of life-changing drugs on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Australia lags behind in subsidizing new medications, with delays causing patients to suffer.
Advocacy groups are pushing for faster access to essential medications, urging the government to prioritize patient well-being over cost-cutting measures. Improved access to innovative treatments is crucial for enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with chronic conditions.