No one 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.
“No one should have to avoid medical appointments or prescriptions. Our own research shows over the past three years, 21% of Australians – 3.75million people - have been unable to afford prescription medication because of cost.
“Every day, 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.