The Tasmanian Government is continuing to deliver pharmacy reforms that make it easier and faster for Tasmanians to get the healthcare they need for common health conditions, closer to home.
Postgraduate scholarships have now been awarded to 150 community pharmacists, who will receive up to $7,000 in financial support to obtain their full scope of practice credentials.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said scholarships will enable pharmacists to significantly expand the number of common health conditions they can treat.
"Postgraduate scholarships have been awarded to 150 community pharmacists located across 110 different pharmacies throughout the State, from Devonport to Cygnet, and from Smithton to St Helens," Minister Archer said.
"Once fully credentialled, these pharmacists will be able to treat more health conditions than ever before, including ear infections, reflux, rhinitis, and skin conditions such as shingles, eczema, and wound care.
"Our Government is delivering for Tasmanians, with pharmacy scope of practice reforms ensuring our community can receive the health care they need, when and where they need it.
"Importantly, this commitment will help to relieve pressure on our health system by freeing up more GP appointments and saving Tasmanians time and money."
The scholarships provide financial support to assist with training fees, with $3,500 available at enrolment and $3,500 upon course completion.
The first pharmacists will begin their postgraduate training in early 2026, with the treatment of additional conditions expected to be available by late 2026.
Minister Archer said the scholarships build on the success of previous initiatives implemented as part of the Tasmanian Government's ongoing commitment to expand the scope of practice of pharmacists.
"Our reforms have already enabled pharmacists to provide more services to Tasmanians, including more than 10,000 episodes of care for urinary tract infections, and hundreds of women supported through the oral contraceptive pill resupply initiatives," Minister Archer said.
"Earlier this month, I also announced that credentialled pharmacists can now assess, initiate and continue hormonal contraceptive services, further enhancing access to contraception for Tasmanian women.
"These reforms are complemented by our community pharmacy grants program, which is currently inviting pharmacies to apply for funding to open for longer, including on evenings and weekends, to enhance access for local communities."
