RUXOLITINIB

The PBAC recommended the addition of nurse practitioners (NPs) as authorised prescribers for ruxolitinib on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), in the continuing treatment phase of all current indications.  
The PBAC noted and welcomed input from a health care professional. The PBAC acknowledged the key role of nurse practitioners in patient care.
In its consideration, the PBAC recalled its July 2025 review of General Schedule oncology and haematology medicines, and whether these should be eligible for NP prescribing. Ruxolitinib was not considered at this meeting as it had not been identified for review by stakeholders. For oncological or haematological conditions in general, the PBAC considered that the clinical work up required for a diagnosis and differential diagnosis may be complex and likely require that a patient’s care be overseen by an oncologist or haematologist. 
As such, the PBAC was of a view that limiting NP prescribing to continuing therapy with a specific medicine was more suitable, rather than allowing NP prescribing in both initiation and continuing settings. It considered that NPs sharing patient care with a medical practitioner would assist in mitigating potential risks. 
In its current decision, the PBAC advised that listing for ruxolitinib should follow precedent for other NP prescribing items for other haematological drugs. The PBAC considered that its decision would be no additional cost to the PBS.