I am living with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), a disease that affects thousands of Australians. Every day is a challenge, but medication helps to manage symptoms and prevent further deterioration. I am currently undergoing treatment with Kesimpta, one of the disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) at risk of being removed from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Without the PBS subsidy, the treatment costs $2,185.13 every 28 days. Under the PBS, I pay only $7.10—a critical reduction for someone unable to work due to this chronic disease.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects over 25,600 Australians, according to MS Australia’s June 2022 report, with RRMS accounting for approximately 85% of these cases. DMTs are not just medications, but lifelines that significantly improve quality of life. Removing them from the PBS would make this essential treatment unaffordable for many people living with MS.

Medical experts and numerous studies highlight the importance of DMTs in reducing relapse rates and slowing disease progression. The high cost of these medications without the PBS subsidy is not feasible for the majority of MS patients, many of whom are already burdened by healthcare expenses and limited income capacity due to their illness.

We urge the government to keep MS DMTs on the PBS to ensure that Australians living with this debilitating disease continue to have access to affordable and vital treatment. Every Australian deserves the right to health and an opportunity to lead a fulfilling life. Let not financial constraints deprive us of the care we need.

Please sign this petition to support people with MS in accessing affordable treatments and maintaining their quality of life.