Tasmanian women to save on contraceptives from 1 November

The measure is in line with Australia’s $516m (A$792.9m) Women’s Health Package.

Tasmanian women will have cheaper access to long-acting contraceptives from 1 November under the next phase of the Australian Government’s $516m (A$792.9m) Women’s Health Package.

Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) will increase rebates for the insertion and removal of intrauterine devices and contraceptive implants. Three new MBS items will also support nurse practitioners to deliver services.

Meanwhile, a 40 per cent bulk-billing incentive will be introduced to incentivise health professionals to provide long-acting contraception.

The measure is expected to save around 300,000 women up to $260.30 (A$400) each year.

A$1 = $0.65