Pharmacists back proposal to make interstate prescriptions easier to access in Tasmania

18 October 2024

Tasmanian Health Minister Guy Barnett MP has today announced a proposal to amend the Poisons Act 1971 to allow prescriptions issued interstate to be filled by Tasmanian pharmacists.

The proposal is welcomed by Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Tasmania President Mark Kirschbaum FPS.

“The proposed changes to the Poisons Act will have a widespread positive impact, providing greater access to medicines for conditions like ADHD,” Mr Kirschbaum said.

“PSA has a long history of advocating for harmonisation of regulations and legislation across the country. We’re glad to see Tasmania take action to ensure medicines are accessible and safe when and where they’re needed.”

The Minister also announced that the Tasmanian Department of Health will also undertake a comprehensive review of the Poisons Act. PSA will continue to engage with the Minister’s office and Department to ensure that any legislative changes support the role of pharmacists in the safe and effective use of medicines.

​

​

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Experienced pharmacy leader elected as PSA Tasmania President

3 July 2024

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is proud to announce the election of experienced pharmacy leader Mark Kirschbaum FPS to lead the Tasmanian branch.

Mr Kirschbaum is the Pharmacy Board of Australia’s practitioner member from Tasmania, a locum community pharmacist and academic at the University of Tasmania in Launceston.

Mr Kirschbaum is experienced in regulation, policy and advocacy, and has worked collaboratively with PSA over many years to improve patient access to care and quality use of medicines. Recently, Mr Kirschbaum has been involved in the redevelopment of Professional Practice Standards and the Tasmanian Government’s Scope of Practice Review for Pharmacists.

Outgoing Tasmanian Branch President David Peachey will continue to serve as Vice-President, alongside Joanne Gross MPS, with Dr Shane Jackson FPS continuing as National Board Director.

Mr Kirschbaum thanked outgoing President David Peachey MPS for his service to the profession and the Tasmanian Branch.

“I sincerely thank David Peachey for his leadership as President of our branch since 2021. I look forward to continuing to work with Vice-Presidents Dave and Joanne, and the Branch Committee to represent and support Tasmanian pharmacists.”

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au