The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the West Australian Government’s commitment to improving access to care for thousands of women suffering from urinary tract infections each year.
From 4 August 2023, pharmacists who have undergone specific training will be able to prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in patients aged 18 to 65 years old. The training is now available to all WA pharmacists.
PSA Western Australia President Kristian Ray welcomed the move, saying that patients’ access to care should be front of mind.
“Pharmacists are well positioned to play a greater role in primary health care and will make UTI treatments more accessible for more West Australians,” Mr Ray said.
“There are hundreds of thousands of women living in Western Australia that will benefit from this policy, particularly in rural and remote WA where there are significant barriers to accessing timely care.
“This program is about improving access to care where it is clinically appropriate and working with the rest of the primary care team to promote a collaborative care model for Western Australians.
“There are robust referral pathways in place for patients who suffer from recurring UTIs or might fall outside of the clinical inclusion criteria.
“As some of the most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities.
“As pharmacists, we are committed to working collaboratively with the entire health sector to deliver the best outcomes for patients.
“I am looking forward to working closely with the Government to ensure the success of the program, improving access to safe, timely care,” Mr Ray concluded.
PSA’s Managing Uncomplicated Cystitis (Urinary Tract Infection) training program is now available to all WA pharmacists.
Text: PSA.
