Chris Owen, President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland, said it is exciting to see the program continue to grow.
“The ability of community pharmacists to practice at this fuller scope began as a North Queensland pilot and has now expanded across the state, offering Queenslanders greater access to comprehensive health care services,” said Mr Owen.
“A growing number of trained community pharmacists are helping patients access timely care for everyday conditions, preventive health checks and long-term support,” Mr Owen said.
“It’s a significant milestone for community pharmacy in Queensland,” said Mr Owen. “Patients are increasingly choosing their local pharmacy for support with everyday conditions, chronic disease management, minor injuries, and preventive health services. Community pharmacists are providing timely care where patients live, work, and play, making a real difference to health outcomes across the state.”
Community pharmacies provide care for a wide range of everyday health conditions, alongside preventive health checks and support for ongoing chronic conditions.
The complete list of services permanently available through trained and authorised community pharmacies includes:
- Acute exacerbations of mild plaque psoriasis
- Minor wound management
- Acute nausea and vomiting
- Acute otitis externa (ear infection)
- Acute otitis media (ear infection)
- Allergic and nonallergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (reflux)
- Herpes zoster (shingles)
- Hormonal contraception
- Impetigo (school sores)
- Management for overweight and obesity
- Mild to moderate acne
- Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis
- Mild acute musculoskeletal pain
- Smoking cessation
- Travel health
- Oral health risk assessment and fluoride application
“These services allow patients to get care faster and closer to home, while also helping GPs and hospitals focus on more complex cases. This improves outcomes for patients and contributes to a more sustainable health care system for all Queenslanders,” said Mr Owen.
Patients can find their nearest participating community pharmacy and discover available services at https://findapharmacy.com.au/qld-scope.