MEDIA RELEASE
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
13 March 2025
Australian Coalition for Endometriosis (ACE) Calls for Urgent Action to Lower Prescription Costs for Chronic Pain Patients
The Australian Coalition for Endometriosis (ACE) joins leading health and community organisations in calling for bipartisan support to lower the maximum out-of-pocket cost of prescription medicine to $19. This critical reform would provide financial relief to more than 12 million Australians, particularly those managing chronic conditions such as endometriosis and pelvic pain.
Independent research reveals that 1 in 5 Australians have delayed or skipped filling a prescription due to cost, with this number rising to 1 in 3 for those in regional and remote areas. Women, people with chronic illnesses, First Nations people, and carers are disproportionately affected, worsening health outcomes and increasing pressure on the healthcare system.
“Endometriosis is a chronic, incurable condition that requires ongoing management, including access to prescription medications for pain relief, hormonal treatment, and symptom management. Yet, many people are forced to forgo their medications due to cost, exacerbating their pain and reducing their ability to work, study, or care for themselves and their families,” said [Spokesperson Name], Australian Coalition for Endometriosis.
Lowering the PBS co-payment to $19 is an immediate, non-inflationary measure that would ease the financial burden on patients while ensuring better health outcomes and long-term economic benefits. The reform would save Australians $440 million in the first year and help reduce hospital admissions caused by preventable medication-related complications.
“For people living with endometriosis, access to affordable medications is essential—not optional. Without urgent action, more Australians will continue to suffer unnecessarily,” [Spokesperson Name] continued. “ACE urges the government to prioritise this reform and ensure that those managing chronic health conditions can access the medications they need without financial hardship.”
ACE stands alongside the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Australian Patients Association, Asthma Australia, Family Planning Alliance Australia, QENDO, Australian Association for Adolescent Health, Wounds Australia, Parents & Citizens Queensland, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, and Advanced Pharmacy Australia in advocating for this crucial policy change.
Media Contact:
Jess Taylor, Chair, Endometriosis Coalition
Email: info@acendo.com.au
Phone: 0434106341
About the Endometriosis Coalition
The Endometriosis Coalition is Australia’s peak body for endometriosis and pelvic pain, representing patients, healthcare professionals, researchers, and advocacy organisation’s. The Coalition drives national collaboration, policy change, and research investment to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support for the 1 in 7 Australians living with endometriosis and pelvic pain. Through partnerships with health professionals, government, and community organisations, the Endometriosis Coalition empowers those affected and works toward systemic change.