National women’s health initiatives a significant step forward in improving access to care

10 February 2025

 

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the Albanese Government’s $573 million commitment to national women’s health initiatives, including a nation-wide trial to boost access to treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and hormonal contraception through community pharmacists.

 

For the first time, the nation-wide trial will mean patients able to access medicines for UTIs and hormonal contraceptives at Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicine cost, improving financial access to these essential medicines.

 

PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS has served on the federal government’s Women’s Health Advisory Council and co-chaired the Access, Care and Outcomes Subcommittee since 2023.

 

Associate Professor Sim said the announcement, which now has bipartisan support, is breaking down barriers to healthcare access, especially in regional, rural and remote areas.

 

“Women deserve to receive timely, high-quality care, and pharmacists are trained and ready to support them in managing their health,” Associate Professor Sim said.

 

“Pharmacists across the country are already a vital piece of the puzzle, allowing women to seek treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections and repeat prescriptions for hormonal contraceptives when and where they need it. This announcement will take these programs one step further, allowing pharmacists to initiate hormonal contraceptives and supply medications under the PBS for the first time.

 

“Community pharmacists are trusted, accessible healthcare professionals. These policy changes are a game changer for women around the country.”

 

Associate Professor Sim reaffirmed PSA’s commitment to supporting pharmacists with the necessary education and training to provide safe and effective care under these initiatives.

 

“PSA is proud to support these initiatives with high-quality education and training for pharmacists, building the capacity and expertise of our profession as we scale up our health care services for women across Australia.

 

“PSA looks forward to working closely with governments and healthcare stakeholders to ensure the success of these trials and to continue strengthening pharmacists’ role in women’s healthcare across Australia,” Associate Professor Sim concluded.

 

Further information on the federal government announcement is available here