Delivered through an innovative partnership between James Cook University and the University of Tasmania, the training is part of a 12-month Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice and Prescribing for Pharmacists.
Community pharmacists who graduate from the course are qualified to diagnose, treat and manage more than 20 everyday and long-term health conditions.
This week's residential training module is being hosted at the University of Tasmania in Launceston.
President of the Tasmanian Branch of the Pharmacy Guild, Joe O’Malley, said local community pharmacists were excited to be undertaking the training.“
Tasmania has some of the best community pharmacists in the country, and we’re proud to see these talented health professionals in training right now to allow them to work to their full scope of practice.
“To meet the needs of our patients and provide more options to access healthcare, we know we need every health professional making the most of their skills.“
This training, delivered by James Cook University at the University of Tasmania, means community pharmacists will have the skills they need to treat more conditions – things like ear infections, shingles, and managing minor wounds.
Mr O’Malley said community pharmacists delivered care safely and effectively, noting appropriately trained community pharmacists were already treating uncomplicated UTIs, delivering more vaccinations, and initiating hormonal contraception.
“Expanding community pharmacists’ scope of practice means better access to more health services for patients across Tasmania,” he said.
To locate a community pharmacy near you visit Find a Pharmacy