Across Australia, State and Territory governments are answering the call for an expanded scope of practice in community pharmacy. In the last few months alone there have been huge announcements from Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia to support training, development and implementation of additional health services through pharmacy.
By giving pharmacists the tools and ability to treat common health conditions, expanded scope initiatives are bringing more accessible healthcare to more Australians and easing pressure on primary care networks.
Here’s the latest in scope news:
Tasmania
Funding: $5 million
Conditions covered: 20, including ear infections, reflux, skin conditions, rhinitis, wound care
As well as subsidising training for qualified pharmacists, Tasmania will also fund a trial enabling pharmacists to prescribe medication to aged care residents in collaboration with general practitioners.
Victoria
Funding: $18 million
Conditions covered: Asthma, nausea, ear infections, wound management, type 2 diabetes
Victoria’s investment not only covers subsidised pharmacist training, but also a patient subsidy that makes Victoria the first to offer expanded services at no extra cost to consumers.
South Australia
Funding: $2.2 million
Conditions covered: Skin conditions, ear infections, wound management, nausea and vomiting, gastro-oesophageal reflux, musculoskeletal pain, rhinitis
South Australia will subsidise training for up to 120 pharmacists over the next three years as they prepare to offer more services, as the Guild continues to support the South Australian Government in developing and implementing scope initiatives, including through new clinical guidelines and upgraded clinical software.
No matter what State you’re in, this is an exciting time for community pharmacy in Australia – so stay tuned for what comes next!
