More Tasmanians will be able to roll up their sleeves at their local community pharmacy to receive a vaccination, after the state government expanded the list of vaccines which can be administered by a pharmacist.
In making the announcement, Tasmania Premier and Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff said this was designed to free up red tape and make it easier for patients to be immunised.
“Under the previous guidelines, Tasmanians would need to visit their medical practitioners to receive a script, visit the pharmacist to collect the vaccine, and return to the medical clinic to have it administered,” the Premier said.
“We’re cutting this down to not only reduce pressure on our medical clinics but also save time for the patient. We know every minute counts for our health workers.”
The changes mean pharmacists will be able to administer vaccines which aren’t currently covered by the National Immunisation Program.
Some of the vaccinations to be included under the expanded list pharmacists can administer include for shingles and travel vaccines when prescribed by a medical or nurse practitioner.
The announcement comes less than three months when the Rockliff Government is due to complete its review of scope of practice and the recent introduction of continued dispensing which allows Tasmanians to access one off supply of their long-term medications.
“We know how valuable the role of our skilled pharmacists is within our health system, and we will continue to work with them as we identify what other services they can safely provide to the community,” the Premier said.
