EBOS offshoot Symbion Health has reacted swiftly to the impact of AstraZeneca's decision to commence direct distribution, advising pharmacists of a reduction in trading terms effective today.
In a letter to pharmacists this week, Symbion placed the blame on AstraZeneca for the change, saying following a review "we have taken the regrettable decision to adjust your PBS trading terms by a 0.25 per cent reduction".
The company urged pharmacists to "maximise your generic substitution opportunities" as a way of mitigating the impact of the change to their business.
The letter confirmed that Symbion was in ongoing dialogue with the Government over the AstraZeneca move, which has seen it commence distributing 14 higher cost items direct to pharmacies in partnership with DHL (PD 31 Oct), rather than via the key CSO wholesalers.
"We will continue our efforts individually, as a member of the NPSA and with your support to lobby for a legislative change to prevent the exclusive direct supply of PBS medicines," Symbion said.
AZ's direct distribution push has been followed in recent days by Amgen, which effective from today will also distribute its Prolia osteoporosis medicine directly to pharmacies (PD 24 Nov).
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