Pharmacist scope pilot to expand, improving access to care for all Queenslanders
25 September 2023
This World Pharmacists Day, Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman MP has announced that the North Queensland Pharmacy Scope of Practice Pilot will be expanded statewide, allowing pharmacists to administer a wider range of vaccines and prescribe medicines for common health conditions.
Speaking at FIP World Congress in Brisbane this afternoon, Minister Fentiman confirmed that participating pharmacists will be able to administer more types of vaccines, and prescribe treatments such as:
- The oral contraceptive pill
- Asthma medication
- Nausea and vomiting medication
- Nasal congestion and runny nose medication
- Mild skin condition treatments
- Some heart disease risk reduction
- Support to quit smoking
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA’s) Queensland President Shane MacDonald MPS welcomed the announcement.
“Pharmacists in Queensland are an integral part of the primary healthcare system, providing a range of services and access to care for all communities.
“The Minister’s announcement is a welcome step toward improving access to care for patients around the state and allowing for a greater number of Queensland pharmacists to practise to their top of scope.
“All Queenslanders will benefit from being able to access timely, quality care from their local pharmacist.
“Queensland has often led the nation on pharmacist scope of practice. Other jurisdictions are watching the results of trials here in Queensland and following suit.
“This is a vote of confidence from the Queensland Government in the skills and expertise of our pharmacists, which PSA looks forward to supporting during its implementation.”
Media contact: Georgia Clarke M: 0480 099 798 E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au
