In a move aimed at strengthening community pharmacies and ensuring improved medication management for patients, the recent Budget announcement has allocated significant funding towards Dose Administration Aids (DAAs). This investment totals $151.1 million over five years, with an additional $45.6 million earmarked for 2028-29.
The funding will increase the maximum number of Government-subsidised Dose Administration Aids – or Webster-paks – that a pharmacy can provide. Under the 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement (6CPA), pharmacies were capped at providing 30 patients with DAAs that attract a base subsidy from the Government per week. Under the 7th Community Pharmacy Agreement (7CPA), this cap was increased to 60.
Now, under the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA), pharmacies will be able to provide these DAAs to 90 patients per week.
DAAs play an important part in medication management for many Australians, especially those with complex medication regimens or difficulty in remembering to take multiple medications. The increased cap for DAAs means more patients will receive this important service that enhances medicine adherence.
Small pharmacies who currently waive DAA fees but who are unable to access the program due to the cap are welcoming the announcement. For these pharmacies, the increased cap and revenue from DAA services is not just beneficial; it's crucial for ensuring their continued viability.
With many small or rural pharmacies being the only healthcare destination available nearby, their ensured viability is not only a win for the pharmacy, but also for the surrounding communities.
