Women’s healthcare made more accessible and affordable

For many women, accessing care can involve long wait times, difficulty securing appointments, travel, cost or simply finding a service that fits around work and family commitments. The Women's Health Trial creates another safe and convenient option.

This is the first time in history that the Australian Government will fund pharmacist consultations nationally for women's health services, helping to improve access to care through community pharmacies while removing a key financial barrier for patients.

It is also the first time women will be able to access pharmacist-prescribed medicines through a Commonwealth-funded program at PBS-equivalent prices, ensuring affordability regardless of where they live.

Under the National Women’s Health Trial, eligible women can access free consultations at participating community pharmacies for:

• uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• starting contraception
• contraception resupply.

Consultations will be delivered by specially trained pharmacists, in a private consultation room, operating under strict clinical protocols and referral pathways. Where applicable, prescribed medicines will be available at PBS prices.

Available contraception services, and medicines, will depend on state and territory authorisations and requirements.