The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the announcement from New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park, improving access to medicines through the expansion of pharmacists’ scope of practice in NSW.
The NSW Government will enable pharmacists to provide treatment for a broader range of common and mild conditions, including ear infections, nausea and vomiting, reflux, acne, muscle pain and wound management.
PSA NSW President Luke Kelly FPS welcomed the decision which will allow pharmacists to improve access to healthcare across the state.
“PSA has long advocated for expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice in NSW, and we are grateful for the trust placed in pharmacists by the NSW Government following the success of the NSW Pharmacy Trial,” Mr Kelly said
“It is encouraging to see pharmacists’ accessibility and skills leveraged to provide NSW residents with more timely and accessible health care for a broader range of conditions. This will make our health system more efficient and safer.’’
“The recognition of Queensland trained pharmacists being able to offer these services in NSW is a positive step. National harmonisation of training requirements will cut red tape and enable more pharmacists to deliver essential services to their communities.”
“PSA will continue to work collaboratively with Minister Park and the NSW Government to ensure these services are implemented professionally, effectively and safely.” he said.
PSA National President, Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS commended the NSW Government for recognising pharmacists’ expertise as pharmacists continue to play a vital role in supporting community health.
“PSA supports improving timely and equitable access to care for all Australians through the expansion of prescribing by pharmacists in a rigorous, robust and responsible manner,” said A/Prof Sim.
“PSA remains committed to preparing the workforce by providing training, education, and practice support to upskill pharmacists, ensuring they are equipped to deliver these services effectively.”
“This announcement follows the launch of Pharmacists in 2030, PSA’s vision for the future of pharmacist practice. Expanding pharmacists’ scope to deliver greater access to healthcare to address unmet health needs is a key step towards realising this vision.”
PSA’s Pharmacists in 2030 vision can be found here: https://www.psa.org.au/advocacy/working-for-our-profession/pharmacists_in_2030/
