The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) as welcomed a significant financial boost for community pharmacies across Australia, which took effect from July 1.
Changes announced by the Federal Government this week include community pharmacies being paid more for dispensing medicines, pharmacies outside the big cities will have their location allowance doubled, and pharmacy medicine stocks will be assured.
RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said the support for community pharmacies is welcome.
"Australia needs a strong and sustainable primary care system with GPs working together with pharmacists, allied health and nurse practitioners to provide the best care for patients," she said.
"Community pharmacies play an important role in dispensing medication. They also provide various associated services, such as for opioid dependence treatment, medication reviews, and Indigenous health, which are government subsidised.
"The significant financial boost to pharmacies from July 1 is welcome, particularly for those in our rural communities. The regional pharmacy maintenance allowance has doubled, so pharmacies in the most remote areas are now eligible for more than $90,000 a year to keep their doors open.
"Rural and remote communities typically have limited access to health services, sometimes there's just one GP practice and pharmacy, and the local community relies on them heavily. The rural primary care community is also tightknit, we support each other, and I know there will be many rural GPs who'll be happy to hear about this additional support for their local pharmacists."
