“This commitment will be a game changer for Tasmanian patients and Tasmanian pharmacists,” Tasmanian Branch President, Joe O’Malley said.
“It will mean better access to health services for Tasmanians in the future, who will be able to get more care when they need it, closer to where they live, from their local community pharmacists.”
The Tasmanian Government will support the delivery of new services by subsidising training for qualified pharmacists to treat conditions, such as ear infections, reflux, skin conditions such as shingles and eczema, rhinitis and wound care.
The decision follows Queensland and the Northern Territory where patients can access treatment for more than 20 everyday and long-term health conditions at their local community pharmacy. These conditions represent the highest volume of preventable hospital presentations and highest volume of PBS prescribing.
“Training subsidies for pharmacists undertaking the training led to early adoption and there are already 100 prescribing pharmacists in Queensland,” Mr O’Malley said.
“We welcome the government’s pledge to provide financial support to pharmacists undertaking the training.
“We’ve seen the benefits for patients in other jurisdictions and we are excited Tasmanian patients will soon enjoy the same new services.”
The $5 million package includes funding to support a trial enabling pharmacists to prescribe medication to Tasmanian aged care residents in collaboration with their general practitioner.
“Community pharmacy is the most accessible frontline health service, providing convenient care at a time that suits patients. Community pharmacists also play a key role in holistic patient care, working in partnership with other medical professionals.
“This includes at local aged care facilities where community pharmacists offer invaluable support. We are looking forward to working with the government to expand this work” Mr O’Malley said.
The expanded services are expected to become available next year, as community pharmacists complete the required training.