Guild urges patients to Think Pharmacy First for accessible and affordable healthcare

Guild urges patients to Think Pharmacy First for accessible and affordable healthcare
As the latest Cleanbill Report outlines the cost and difficulty of seeing a GP, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia is urging patients to ‘Think Pharmacy First’. Community pharmacies offer accessible care often with longer weekday and weekend openings for a range everyday health conditions and long-term health management.
Noone should have to go without the health treatment they need, National President Pharmacy Guild Australia Trent Twomey said.
“Highly trained community pharmacists provide an important service to patients with non-complex everyday health conditions. State and federal governments can also make a difference by increasing the range of conditions that can be treated in a pharmacy – and making this consistent across the country.”
“Noone should have to avoid medical appointments or prescriptions. Our own research shows over the past three years, 21 per cent of Australians – 3.75million people – have been unable to afford prescription medication because of cost.
“Everyday, community pharmacists work closely with GPs, nurses and other allied health practitioners to provide the best possible outcome for patients.
“The Guild will continue to call on the government to make medicine more affordable and reduce the pressure on our doctors and hospitals by offering a cost effective, available, professional alternative.
Community Pharmacists can provide a range of vaccines and treat non-complex UTIs (urinary tract infections), resupply oral contraceptives and in some states and territories treat other conditions. Patients can visit FindaPharmacy.com.au to book a consultation, research services and find out how community pharmacy can help.