NT Pharmacists to administer more vaccines to more Territorians
19 December 2023
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the Northern Territory Government’s move to cut unnecessary red tape and allow qualified pharmacist-immunisers to administer a wider range of vaccines from early next year.
From 1 January 2024, pharmacist-immunisers will be authorised to administer all vaccines listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule, including as private vaccines to those who are not eligible for NIP funding, for consumers aged five years and older.
The update also authorises pharmacists to administer vaccines outside of community pharmacy settings, opening the door for pharmacist-led vaccination outreach clinics across the Territory.
PSA Northern Territory and South Australia President Dr Manya Angley FPS said that these changes send the right message to the community.
“Maintaining immunisation is a lifelong commitment and pharmacists are accessible and trusted health practitioners in communities throughout the Northern Territory,” Dr Angley said.
“There should be no wrong door when a patient is seeking a vaccine, whether from their local GP or pharmacist.
“Allowing pharmacists to administer vaccines in a range of settings also unlocks the full potential of our immunisation workforce, allowing outreach clinics to offer targeted health promotions.
“I am proud to see years of PSA’s advocacy has led to real outcomes not only for the pharmacists who will be able to play a greater role in delivering vaccines, but for our communities who will be able to access eligible vaccines closer to home, at their convenience.
“We look forward to continuing to work with NT Health and the NT Government to ensure that all Territorians have access to quality health care, no matter where they live,” Dr Angley concluded.
Ahead of the NIP Vaccination in Pharmacies expansion on 1 January 2024, PSA has released a comprehensive and updated immunisation course for pharmacists with renewed clinical content, interactive videos and revised layout.
The updated PSA immunisation training program is available to all pharmacists here.
PSA members can now enrol in immunisation refresher course for free here.
Media contact: Georgia Clarke M: 0480 099 798 E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au
