Australians currently living with advanced melanoma will benefit from new and expanded treatment options on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

From March 1, the current PBS listing of Opdivo® (nivolumab) has be expanded to include adjuvant treatment of completely resected stage IIIB, IIIC, IIID and stage IV malignant melanoma.

Opdivo® is a breakthrough immunotherapy which works by blocking proteins and helping the body’s own immune system to find, attack and destroy cancer cells.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the Page electorate has some of the highest melanoma rates in NSW.

“It is estimated more than 1,500 patients might otherwise pay more than $100,000 per course of treatment without the PBS subsidy,” Mr Hogan said.

“These significant expansions will provide melanoma patients with a new breakthrough form of treatment, with less side effects and a greater chance of recovery.”

“Price reductions put more money back in Australian’s pockets. Patients will save and taxpayers will save.”

The Government is also expanding the listing of Opdivo® and Yervoy® (nivolumab and ipilimumab) to allow use as a first-line therapy in the treatment of BRAF V600 mutant positive Stage III or Stage IV unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

Each of these listings has been recommended by the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.

Since 2013, the Australian Government has listed more than 2,300 new or amended listings on the PBS. This represents an average of around 30 listings or amendments per month – or one each day – at an overall investment by the Government of $10.9 billion.