The Australian government is providing additional support, reducing the out of pocket costs for hundreds of Australians living with epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic disorder which requires specialised wound dressings.

Epidermolysis bullosa, which mainly affects children can be a painful and debilitating condition, resulting in extremely fragile and blister prone skin.

Around 260 Australians require specialised dressings and for those living with the most severe form of the disease, the dressings can cost them around $5,000 a month.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the Morrison Government has approved 46 new products to be listed on the National Epidermolysis Bullosa Dressing Scheme (NEBDS) Product Schedule.

“These new products will provide additional support for Australians, helping to manage their costs for dressings, reduce their out of pocket costs.

“Recommended by the NEBDS Clinical Advisory Committee, the 46 additions include new and improved technology designed to enhance wound care and accelerate healing", Minister Hunt said.