The federal government has listed a breast cancer drug on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, slashing its cost from $70,000 to as little as $6.
More than 3000 breast cancer patients will get access to cheaper medication after the cost of a life-changing drug was slashed.
The federal government has listed ribociclib, which has the brand name Kisqali, on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from Sunday.
This medication would otherwise cost patients more than $70,000 per year but under the PBS patients will cost $39.50 per script and $6.40 for concession holders.
The drug, in combination with other treatments, slows the progression of inoperable or metastatic breast cancers in patients.
Metastatic hormone receptor-positive tumours are the most common form of breast cancer and account for most of the deaths from the disease.
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said the drug was profoundly important for more than 3000 women.
"It will save lives, protect lives, improve lives, extend lives," Mr Hunt told the Nine Network on Sunday.
Meanwhile, all mothers will be offered a free whooping cough vaccine to protect their baby.
A meningococcal vaccine will also be available for 12-month-old children.
"When you look at the whooping cough and the meningococcal vaccination it's just about protecting these beautiful newborns and toddlers," Mr Hunt said.
Around 26,000 men who need an MRI prostate scan will be able to access it through Medicare.
Mr Hunt said the measure would help men get an earlier and better diagnosis.
