New PBS benefits for couples separated by illness
From 1 January, 2009, couples living apart because of illness can have joint access to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Safety Net which helps reduce the cost of medicines for individuals, couples, and families who need a number of prescriptions.
Previously a person and partner were required to be living together permanently to use the safety net as a couple but now if people are living separately because of frailty or ill health they may benefit from increased assistance with pharmaceutical costs.
This means people living apart can in 2009 combine PBS payments towards the same safety net threshold, be included on the same safety net concession or entitlement card, and obtain PBS medicines at the reduced safety net rate when the threshold is reached.
More information on the PBS safety net is available on 1800 020 613.
![Dandenong Mayor [left] stands next to aged care resident and aged care staff member](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/belv__2204.jpg?fm=pjpg&w=370)
![Dandenong Mayor [left] stands next to aged care resident and aged care staff member](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/belv__2204.jpg?fm=pjpg&w=520&format=auto&q=65)
