Some Thoughts on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

Mapping the Sociology of Health and Medicine

“…By the end of the 1960s there was a widespread view among political and social reformers and within the academic community that the provision of health and welfare services was inadequate (Hunter 1963;Sax 1967;Whitlam 1968;Scotton 1969). Health expenditures were rising and nearly 17 per cent of Australians were not covered by health insurance.…”

“…Thus a brief review of the publications of the 1960s and 1970s shows little substantive difference with regard to the topics of interest. The focus on alcoholism, deviance, and the health system continued (Hunter 1963;Saint 1963;Cawte 1964;Krupinski and Stoller 1968;Sargent 1968;Maxwell 1975;McGrath 1977;Bates 1979;Durrington et al 1979;Whitlock 1979), though a few more studies appeared on the subjects of class and professionalisation, particularly towards the end of the period (Pike 1963;Western 1963;Duff 1973;Darby 1977;Egger 1978;Glasner 1979;Willis 1979). However, there were some differences between the theoretical perspectives of the two periods, for papers became more sociological in orientation rather than simply focusing on the social aspects of illness or the health system; and there was a shift in the theoretical frameworks themselves, for functionalism was on the wane and Marxist, Weberian, Durkheimian, interactionist and feminist perspectives on the rise (Betts 1976;Burton 1977;Homer 1977;Wild 1977;Storz 1978;Swain and Harrison 1979).…”

Pharmaceutical Benefits in Australia and Sweden: Welfare Policy and the Cost of Prescription Drugs

“…Pharmaceutical benefits were introduced in Australia and Sweden in the 1950s along with child and family welfare programs, sickness insurance and various housing and education measures (Hunter 1963;Olsson 1993;Sloan 1995). The purpose was to ensure access to appropriate prescription medicines irrespective of the patient's financial circumstances.…”

“…For more than 50 years, the PBS has provided equity of access to prescription drugs, minimising the risk of financial hardship ensuing from pharmaceutical expenses in cases of illness or injury (in most instances). The program was designed under Labor in the 1940s, implemented by the Menzies Government, and subsequently expanded to provide free or low cost access to most prescription drugs to all Australian residents (Hunter 1963;Sloan 1995).…”

Health and Politics

“…manufacturers-have been described in an early edition of this J ourna1. 26 Thelma Hunter argues that the Australian Association of Ethical Pharmaceutical Industry is less than happy with the provisions laid down. 27 The interests of the A.A.E.P.I.…”