How Australia’s health system is failing patients by prioritising process and cost control over timely access to treatment, forcing more to rely on compassionate access programs. HTA processes are slow, often dehumanising, and used by the government as a delay tactic. Meaningful reform requires shifting away from process-driven decision-making toward real patient needs. The opportunity articulated this week by one leader is to pursue a more strategic approach to policy. The episode also highlights the growing role of pharmacy, which is increasingly based on trust and confidence, especially post-COVID, in contrast to struggling GPs.