PBAC Recommends Removing COVID-19 Antivirals from Doctor’s Bag
27 Oct 2025
Dr Michael Tam, from the RACGP Expert Committee – Quality Care, said the decision is not surprising and largely reflects cost and potential wastage. At over $2,100 each, these antivirals are the most expensive items in the Prescriber Bag and have relatively short shelf lives, making it more practical for pharmacies to manage their supply.
“While there may still be patients who could benefit from these medicines, the expense and logistics of keeping them in the Prescriber Bag are no longer justified,” Dr Tam said.
COVID-19 cases are now significantly lower than during the height of the pandemic. As of 7 October 2025, only seven patients were in intensive care nationally, compared to 40 on the same date in 2022. Most Australians are now either fully vaccinated, have had COVID-19 previously, or both, reducing the overall risk from infection.
During the early pandemic, these antivirals were crucial for high-risk patients, and the RACGP successfully lobbied to include them in Prescriber Bags for immediate access. Today, while some patients may still need treatment, emergency access via doctor’s bags is less essential.
Source: RACGP Media Release, October 2025
