This is the text extract for Notification - Changes to the range of subsidised enteral feeds, browse documents here.

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30 September 2008

Changes to the range of subsidised enteral feeds

PHARMAC will be fully subsidising enteral feed 1 kcal/ml and enteral feed with fibre 1 kcal/ml by listing Isosource HN, Isosource HN RTH, Fibersource HN and Fibersource HN RTH from 1 October 2008 to replace Isosource Standard, Isosource Standard RTH, Fibersource and Fibersource RTH which will subsequently be delisted. The changes mean that the same range of enteral feed 1 kcal/ml and enteral feed with fibre 1 kcal/ml will continue to be listed and fully subsidised. However, the protein content in the new products is higher, and more consistent with dietary recommendations.

Details of the decision

Novartis Medical Nutrition and Nestlé Healthcare Nutrition have recently integrated and as a result the suppliers’ combined product portfolio is being reviewed. The review resulted in changes to Nestlé Healthcare Nutrition’s product range. The new products to be listed in the Schedule are detailed below:

Chemical

Formulation

Brand

Pack size

Proposed price and subsidy $1.24 $1.24

Enteral feed 1 kcal/ml Enteral feed with fibre 1 kcal/ml Enteral feed 1 kcal/ml Enteral feed with fibre 1 kcal/ml

Liquid Liquid

Isosource HN Fibersource HN

250 ml OP 250 ml OP

Liquid Liquid

Isosource HN RTH Fibersource HN- RTH

1000 ml OP 1000 ml OP

$5.29 $5.29

Access to a subsidy for these products will be via the current Special Authority applying to Adult Products Standard.

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What feedback was received?

This change was the subject of a consultation letter dated 25 August 2008. We appreciate the feedback we received and acknowledge the time people took to respond. All consultation responses received by 8 September 2008 were considered in their entirety before making a decision on the proposed changes. Responders to the consultation were supportive of the proposal. The proposal was approved by PHARMAC’s Board to be effective from 1 October 2008.

More information

Of you have any queries about these changes please contact the PHARMAC helpline on 0800 66 00 50 (9 am to 5 pm weekdays).