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Seymour backs wider pharmacist treatment role
Brief
ACT says trained pharmacists should be able to treat more common conditions, easing pressure on GP appointments and improving access to care.
In-depth
ACT leader David Seymour says pharmacists should be given a broader role in treating common health issues so people can get care without always needing to see a doctor. He said the aim is to reduce waiting times and lower the cost of accessing treatment.
The proposal builds on rules announced last month that allow some pharmacists to prescribe funded medication for emergency contraception, pain and fever management, oral rehydration, and a range of common conditions including scabies, head lice, conjunctivitis and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
Seymour said pharmacists could be accredited to treat additional conditions, provided they are trained to know when to manage a case and when to refer a patient on. He said some people would still need a GP, but many could be helped more quickly through a pharmacy.
He also suggested a future role for pharmacists in assessing skin lesions, including the use of dermatoscopes and an artificial intelligence tool to assist triage. Pharmacy representatives said many pharmacists could take on extra duties with further training and funding, and that some pharmacies already have suitable consultation rooms.
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