LEONGATHA’S Terry White Pharmacy is among those set to participate in Victoria’s 12-month ‘community pharmacist pilot program’, enabling it to provide specific extra services previously only available through a GP, having already been approved for the program.
The Victorian Government initiative of expanding the range of services pharmacies can provide is intended to improve access to health care for Victorians, with pharmacies to receive government funding.
Initially, extra services will involve being able to issue a resupply of contraceptive pills without a new prescription and providing antibiotics for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women.
Later, participating pharmacies will be able to provide a travel clinic service offering travel-related vaccinations, as well as treatment for mild skin conditions.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas noted the initiative is based on overseas examples.
“With pharmacy consultation and prescribing already commonplace in many countries, we know it can provide a safe and affordable alternative for Victorians, while freeing up GPs for those with more urgent needs,” she said.
While the pilot program officially began on October 27, Terry White Leongatha’s participating pharmacist Zac Timpano is awaiting the required training.
Zac explained that once the program is running at the pharmacy, each customer’s eligibility will be determined based on individual circumstances, with the need to take account of the person’s medical situation.
Those who are not eligible will be referred to appropriate services.
Zac stressed that there will be no charge for determining eligibility and that medicines provided through the program won’t cost any more than they would if prescribed through a GP.
A government spokesperson stated that travel health consultations and treatment for mild skin conditions will roll out in coming months.
While the pilot program has launched in some pharmacies, others are still able to apply.
Leongatha’s Amcal Pharmacy has already done so but is awaiting confirmation it has been approved.
The State Government indicates that 400 pharmacies across Victoria have joined the pilot program, with 200 more expected to come on board over coming weeks.
To participate, pharmacies need to demonstrate they have appropriate facilities, such as a private consulting room, and at least one staff member who has undergone the required training.
Under the pilot program, there will be no charge for consultations regarding UTIs, resupply of the contraceptive pill or mild skin conditions.
Pharmacies may charge a fee for travel health consultations and vaccinations according to the government.
