From late March 2024, people suffering from certain skin conditions including impetigo (school sores) and shingles will, as part of the state government’s pharmacy prescribing trail, be able to access prescription medicines easier.
The next stage of the trail which sees participating pharmacists authorised to supply certain medicines without a prescription after having a consultation with a pharmacist is designed to safely expand the capacity of pharmacists, relieving pressure on general practitioners and other primary care settings.
It follows previous stages announced in May which trialled the prescribing of treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) and in September was extended to include prescribing the resupply of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP).
“Everyone knows it is sometimes difficult to get in to see our very busy GPs. People know where to find a pharmacy and this trial offers patients who can’t see their GP another treatment pathway,” Minister for Heath, Ryan Park, said.
“Through this trial, we are making it easier and more convenient for people to access the medications they need but working hard to ensure their care is not fragmented. By bolstering the capacity of pharmacies, we can take pressure off other parts of our primary care system, so that those who need them can access them.”
Pharmacy Guild New South Wales Branch President, David Heffernan, said the development of the trial meant the state government was moving in the right direction.
“Pharmacies across NSW, from Bondi to Bourke, have already treated thousands of women with urinary tract infections who would otherwise have struggled to see a GP or attended an emergency department. It’s not only saving patients time but money which is crucial when doctors’ bulk billing rates continue to fall, and during a cost-of-living crisis”, he said.
Participating pharmacies in Broken Hill include CP Peoples Chemist (323 Argent St), Tembys Day and Night Pharmacy (235 Thomas St), and Amcal Westside Plaza Pharmacy (Shop 28, 5 Galena St).
For more information about the clinical trial, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pharmaceutical/Pages/community-pharmacy-pilot.aspx.
