Western Australians will soon find it easier to “access care”, after the state government formally recognised the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA) Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing.
The recognition, granted under the Enhanced Access Community Pharmacy Pilot, allows appropriately trained community pharmacists to diagnose and treat 17 common conditions.
The state government is also subsidising 30 places in PSA’s Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing, lowering the barrier for pharmacists wanting to expand their scope of practice.
Closing the access gap
PSA WA Branch President, Kristian Ray MPS, says the official recognition and training subsidy are an “important step towards improving access to care”.
“We are delighted that Minister Hammat and the Western Australian Government have approved PSA’s Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing and are supporting 30 subsidised placements for pharmacists,” says Mr Ray.
“Many Western Australians, particularly those living in rural and remote communities, rely on pharmacists for timely access to care to manage uncomplicated urinary tract infections, resupply the oral contraceptive pill, and address skin conditions, among others.
“This change will enable more pharmacists to access prescribing training, allowing them to practise to their full scope and provide greater care for patients and communities across the state.”
The PSA says it’s committed to supporting pharmacists through the qualification process.
Those interested in enrolling in the Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing can find course details on PSA’s website, with further information on the pilot available through the WA Department of Health.
