From tomorrow, up to 250 more pharmacists will have their qualifications recognised, allowing them to manage more conditions in NSW and making care more accessible for more people in communities across the state.
The new regulation coming into effect from Thursday, 5 November will align the scope of practice for pharmacists who graduate with an appropriate qualification from the University of Newcastle or the University of Technology Sydney with pharmacists who hold a similar graduate certificate from James Cook University.
These pharmacists are expected to complete their courses later this year, and will be able to provide treatment for:
- Initiation of oral contraception
- Acute nausea and vomiting
- Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Mild acute musculoskeletal pain
- Mild to moderate acne
This means more people will be able to walk into their local pharmacy and get treatment for common conditions closer to home, while freeing up GP appointments for patients who need them.
This builds on the work the Minns Labor Government has already done to make care more accessible and convenient, including:
- Expanding scope of practice for GPs to diagnose and treat ADHD
- Establishing a pilot to allow eligible pharmacists to treat more conditions, including ear infections and wounds, and help patients manage chronic conditions
- Investing in care delivered by phone or video call and urgent care services
- Supporting geriatric outreach and Hospital in the Home
- Expanding scope of practice for pharmacists to treat uncomplicated skin conditions and UTIs, and resupply the contraceptive pill
To find a local pharmacist delivering expanded health services, you can search the healthdirect Service Finder.
Quotes attributable to Health Minister Ryan Park:
"This change will make it easier and more convenient for people to access the care they need within their community.
"By empowering more pharmacists to practice an expanded scope, we are ensuring more communities around NSW can access this care when they need it, without having to go to a GP."
