The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the Albanese Government’s $573 million commitment to national women’s health initiatives, including a nation-wide trial to boost access to treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and hormonal contraception through community pharmacists.
For the first time, eligible patients will be able to obtain medicines for UTIs and hormonal contraceptives at Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) pricing, improving affordability and accessibility.
‘Breaking down healthcare barriers’
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS, who has co-chaired the Access, Care and Outcome Subcommittee under the federal government’s Women’s Health Advisory Council since 2023, describes the announcement as a significant step forward in breaking down healthcare barriers, particularly in rural and regional areas.
“Women deserve to receive timely, high-quality care, and pharmacists are trained and ready to support them in managing their health,” says Associate Professor Sim.
‘Announcement takes pharmacy programs further’
Associate Professor Sim emphasises the critical role pharmacists already play in enabling women to access treatment for UTIs and repeat prescriptions for hormonal contraceptives.
“This announcement will take these programs one step further, allowing pharmacists to initiate hormonal contraceptives and supply medications under the PBS for the first time,” she says.
With bipartisan support, cements pharmacists’ role as trust, accessible healthcare providers, reinforcing their ability to deliver essential women’s health services.
“Community pharmacists are trusted, accessible healthcare professionals.
“These policy changes are a game changer for women around the country,” says Associate Professor Sim.
PSA committed to pharmacy education and training
PSA is committed to equipping pharmacists with high-quality education and training to ensure safe and effective care under the new policies.
“PSA is proud to support these initiatives with high-quality education and training for pharmacists, building the capacity and expertise of our profession as we scale up our health care services for women across Australia.
“PSA looks forward to working closely with governments and healthcare stakeholders to ensure the success of these trials and to continue strengthening pharmacists’ role in women’s healthcare across Australia,” says Associate Professor Sim.
