Patient eligibility
The PBS subsidises treatment with aflibercept, dexamethasone and ranibizumab for patients with BRVO or CRVO with macular oedema. This is under section 85 of the National Health Act 1953.
Patients must be eligible for the PBS and meet the relevant restriction criteria.
The Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits on the PBS website outlines the restrictions for prescribing aflibercept, dexamethasone and ranibizumab.
Treatment specifics
To be eligible for PBS-subsidised treatment with these medications, patients must be treated by:
- an ophthalmologist
- an accredited ophthalmology registrar in consultation with an ophthalmologist.
Authority applications
Applying for initial treatment
Apply for initial authority approval to prescribe PBS-subsidised aflibercept, dexamethasone and ranibizumab in writing and either:
- upload through Health Professional Online Services (HPOS)
- post to the PBS Complex Drugs Programs.
All applications must include the completed:
- authority prescription form or forms
- retinal vein occlusion initial PBS authority application form (PB154)
- relevant attachments.
Applications to move between different drugs to treat BRVO or CRVO will require a new initial authority application to be completed.
Applying for continuing treatment
Applications for continuing authority applications to prescribe PBS-subsidised aflibercept, dexamethasone intravitreal implant and ranibizumab can be made either:
- in real time using the Online PBS Authorities system
- by calling the PBS Complex Drugs Programs enquiry line.
Further information
Call the PBS Complex Drugs Programs enquiry line for further information.