The use and impact of trastuzumab (Herceptin) for early and late stage HER-2 positive breast cancer in Australia

This project was established to conduct a long-term evaluation of the way in which trastuzumab (Herceptin) is used to treat early and late stage breast cancer in the real world clinical setting. Secondary health data sets were linked to examine all patients receiving trastuzumab since the inception of the Herceptin Program (for late stage disease) in December 2001 and since its listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for early stage disease in October 2006. The data linkages have been set up in such a way that it is possible to track individuals receiving PBS-subsidised trastuzumab for early stage disease and upon disease progression patients receiving the drug via the Herceptin Program for metastatic disease. Data access and linkage was facilitated by Medicare Australia, the administering body of both programs. The study currently has approval for annual data updates until 2015. Originating source(s): Medicare Australia -[Herceptin Program] [Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme] [Medical Benefits Scheme] and [Patient/Medicare enrolment data]