Hi All,
Just a post to update you on the unfairness of Australian PBS!!!
I had an application submitted for Remicade that included grade 2 sacroillitis on right (from xrays 12months old) nothing on the left, limited range of movement, no elevated CRP or ESR (although ferrotin levels well above normal). Currently on Mobic, Plaquenil, Methotrexate, Arava, Prednisalone (hospitalised when off Pred), two docs saying I should be on it (that I have seen). I sent a letter to Davo's contact and recieved the following reply:
Dear Rosemary
I am sorry to hear of the problems you are having with AS. If your CRP level is elevated and you have grade 3 sacroiliitis on one side then you would qualify for Remicade provided certain other criteria are met. Unfortunately the current rules from the Pharmacetical Benefits Advisory Committee are strictly applied, although it is possible that changes may occur in the future.
I would suggest further discussion with your Rheumatologist, who may wish to talk directly to Schering Plough.
Best wishes
Jim Bertouch
Chairman. Therapeutics Committee
It seems that it is not likely for many AS suffers in Australia will get Remicade before the disease has put them in a wheelchair!!
My Rehumy has today told me she is going to keep fighting for me and we will get the drug, hopefully sooner rather than later.
Trying to keep a happy face (struggling a bit at the moment!).
Take care and keep smiling,
Rose
