Q1. What does the DVA orange card cover?

Information for providers

The DVA orange card enables the holder to access the range of pharmaceutical items available under the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS). The Orange card entitles the holder to purchase pharmaceutical items at the concessional rate. The orange card also entitles the holder to receive a fortnightly Pharmaceutical Allowance to help offset the cost of prescriptions.

The orange card is for pharmaceuticals only, and cannot be used for any medical or other health care treatment.

Access to a wider range of pharmaceuticals

The Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme covers a much wider range of pharmaceuticals than the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Access is based on clinical need and some items require prior approval from DVA.

• Orange card holders may also obtain items not listed in the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits.
• Orange card holders may be prescribed listed items for a use other than that stipulated in the Schedule.

Concessional rate for medication

• The orange card entitles a veteran to obtain prescribed medications at a concessional rate — currently $5.30 * per item.
• When the annual safety net is reached there are no further charges for RPBS-listed items for that calendar year, with the exception of some brand and therapeutic group premiums.
• The safety net limit for 2009 is $318.00* or 60 prescriptions for that calendar year. *

*These figures are indexed annually in line with the CPI.

Pharmaceutical Allowance

The orange card entitles the holder to receive the Pharmaceutical Allowance. This is paid with their pension and is currently $5.80 per fortnight.

For more information

• On orange cards, see DVA Fact Sheet HSV69 (PDF 28 Kb) 

• On all DVA programs and services, see the DVA Fact Sheet system;

• Or contact DVA.

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