PBS GROWTH HORMONE PROGRAM

The Australian Government provides subsidised access to growth hormone medicines for eligible paediatric and adult patients through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Growth Hormone Program established under section 100 of the National Health Act 1953. Growth hormone restriction criteria is clinically complex. Different restriction criteria apply to the writing of a prescription for growth hormone for adults and children respectively. Prescribers should ensure the appropriate restriction criteria are met at the time of prescribing.

There are a number of prescribers authorised to treat patients for PBS subsidised treatment with growth hormone medicines. This is dependent upon the appropriate restriction criteria at the time of prescribing. Growth hormone medicines can be dispensed by a community pharmacy, a participating PBS reform public hospital pharmacy, a private hospital pharmacy and a dispensing doctor.

Prescribers are able to apply to Services Australia for the supply of growth hormone. Prescribing information, including Authority Application forms and other relevant documentation (as applicable) are available on the Services Australia website.