The current system in Australian for patients on OMT is a user pays system and there is currently talk to suggest that by providing a free service to patients would boost adherence. There are reports that many patients often forego their daily treatment for other necessities. From a clinical point of view, this is a disturbing thought. Yet the current price ranges from $5 to $10 per day for a single dose which many in the public would see as affordable. A reform of the system would see pharmacies paid a monthly dispensing fee by the Government with a small monthly co-payment from the patient. The aim being to increase adherence and health outcomes and ensure patients use the program and maintain the treatment. At an estimated cost of $144m per annum, this is not a small part of the health budget. Whilst hard to measure now, the forecast for better health outcomes, lower drug related health issues and crime costs to the community may end up being a fair outcome.
What is your view on the handling of OMT?
Who should pay and how should it be delivered?
Do you think OMT works as a treatment? Should the public fund the treatment?