Drug discount denied
AS SOMEONE with cystic fibrosis, I feel that the story Drug Discount Denied (The Examiner, August 21) is slightly misleading. Not everyone with cystic fibrosis can take Orkambi. I can't due to other medical issues caused by my illness. My brother on the other hand, who also has cystic fibrosis, can and has been for some time. He trialled the drug with five other people all of whom are no longer taking the drug because it is not conducive with their ecosystem.
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In my brother’s case the drug company behind Orkambi is subsidising the cost of the drug. In March, I was at a conference where a doctor from Melbourne was talking about new and upcoming treatments. His opinion on Orkambi was that it has “no future” because the drug can't be taken by everyone with cystic fibrosis and that new drugs will be available and be more efficient than what Orkambi is.
Luke Newson, Newnham.
Parliamentary privilege
WITH ALL the drama happening in the federal lower house about dual citizenship in main relating to countries that have transplanted the imperial system from the UK to countries such as Canada and New Zealand. I wouldn't be surprised if the same issue has not effected previous Australian government member - so what does this mean for those who have retired and are accessing parliamentary privilege - pun intended. Wow the High and Supreme Courts have some ruling to do. Perhaps an increase in wages following refunds will be due.
Fleur King, Devonport.
Bridge across the River
THE proposed new City of Launceston bridge from Seaport to the northern recreation area would seem an ideal platform to include a tram track to allow the Penny Royal tram to traverse from that area across the bridge, circumnavigate around Ogilvie Park on the nature strips and allow visitors to take advantage of the proposed new northern recreation area. I do not understand how larger boats and yachts are to navigate under the bridge to Seaport marina?
