Scope of Practice on the agenda for Northern Territory Election
25 July 2024
Territorians may soon have greater access to health services through community pharmacists as both major parties look to improve access to care ahead of the Northern Territory’s August election.
Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro this week announced the Northern Territory Community Pharmacy Scope of Practice program, allowing pharmacists to treat ‘up to 21 conditions’ if the Country Liberal Party (CLP) is elected to government in August.
Meanwhile the Northern Territory Government launched a consultation earlier this month, seeking community feedback on what expanded community pharmacy services could look like in the Territory.
PSA Northern Territory and South Australia Vice-President Colleen Niland welcomed the focus on pharmacy services.
“The Northern Territory is home to 270 pharmacists who can and should be empowered to contribute more to the health of Territorians. PSA strongly supports scope of practice changes and better utilisation of pharmacists’ skills and expertise, including through programs that empower pharmacists to treat common health concerns.
“PSA welcomes the CLP’s commitment to expand pharmacist services if they are elected in August. We want to see pharmacists empowered to do more for their patients and our Territorians, and look forward to the release of NT Labor’s health policy in due course.
“Acknowledging the vital role general practitioners hold, greater access to health services through community pharmacists will free up GPs, especially during the tourist surge when there is increased demand.
“Almost all Australian jurisdictions have now implemented trials or programs allowing pharmacists to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), an initiative that’s been welcomed by patients, and it’s time for the Northern Territory to catch up and support our Territorians.
“Allowing pharmacists to treat uncomplicated UTIs, deliver more vaccines, or provide antivirals for COVID-19 and influenza would mean more time available for GPs to spend on more complex health needs.
“As pharmacists we want to do more for our patients, and our patients want us to be able to do more,” Ms Niland concluded.
Media contact: Georgia Clarke M: 0480 099 798 E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au
