“Community pharmacists are a secret weapon in the fight against heart disease” Pharmacy Guild of Australia, National President Professor Trent Twomey said. “They can already provide blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring, medication management and vaccines – which we know are critical for those with heart disease and other chronic conditions.
“On average people visit a community pharmacy every three weeks. Community pharmacists are accessible, available and able to do even more to support patients and it’s time to unlock the potential of community pharmacists to build a healthier Australia.
An ongoing pilot in Queensland sees community pharmacists, with additional qualifications, consulting with patients to identity and improve outcomes for those at high risk of heart disease.
“All States and Territories should let pharmacists do more for heart patients and end the current postcode lottery. Equitable healthcare access for all patients is a cornerstone of quality patient-centred primary care.
“Community pharmacy is Australia’s most accessible frontline healthcare destination, with over 6,000 community pharmacies open at convenient times during the week and weekends. Unlocking the potential of community pharmacies to prevent and manage heart disease will benefit 1.3 million patients.”
From January 2026 the maximum cost of PBS prescriptions for those patients with chronic conditions, like heart disease or hypertension will be decreasing from $31.60 to $25.
This is only the second time in 75 years that the co-payment has been reduced. It will benefit more than 20 million Australians who don’t hold a concession card. Over four years, this puts $689 million back in the pockets of patients.
Services currently offered at community pharmacies include blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring; medication management; heart health risk assessments; health education and lifestyle support; blood glucose and ECG or Holter monitoring; chronic condition management support as well as digital health and prescription reminders.
Patients can find their local community pharmacy and the services offered through Find a Pharmacy.