Consumers want discount for generic medicines - survey

Having access to care and treatment for your medical needs is possible with a private health insuranceplan, but a new survey has found that 75 per cent of Australians believe that a price discount should be offered by the government for those who choose to buy generic medicines.

The research surveyed more than 1,000 respondents across Australia, finding that may Australians were "very positive" about generic medicines, with 89 per cent rating generic prescription medicines as 'a product I know and trust'.

The research was commissioned by Generic Medicines Industry Association (GMiA) also found that 84 per cent will trust their doctor and 86 per cent their pharmacist to aid them in choosing which medicine to buy.

Chairman of the GMiA Dr Martin Cross said that the findings in the research should frame future policy decision making.

"Consumers are not incentivised to opt for generic medicine on most occasions. GMiA advocates that consumers who are struggling financially the most (concession card holders and consumers who purchase prescription medicines frequently) could do with access to more affordable medicines," said Dr Cross.