Expectant mothers in Australia will soon benefit from new healthcare options that make essential services more accessible and affordable.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler recently announced that pregnant women will have free access to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, ABRYSVO®, through the National Immunisation Program Vaccination in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) Program. Previously costing around $300, ABRYSVO® will now be available at community pharmacies for free for eligible patients.
Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey commended the move, emphasising the importance of ensuring expectant mothers are safeguarded from RSV-related complications.
“Vaccines play an essential role in keeping patients safe, and the ABRYSVO® vaccine is particularly critical in protecting babies from RSV-related hospitalisations,” said Professor Twomey. “This initiative means all expectant mothers and their babies can be protected from RSV, not just those who can afford it.”
Community pharmacies already offer a range of essential vaccinations for pregnant women, including those for whooping cough and influenza, and are often open late and on weekends to increase access and convenience.
In another win for women’s health, endorsed midwives and nurse practitioners can now prescribe medicines under the PBS as of 1 November. This reform reduces administrative burdens, empowering highly skilled healthcare professionals to provide timely care.
“This is an important step forward for improved health outcomes and healthcare access for women,” Professor Twomey said. “Early intervention by frontline healthcare professionals reduces later complications and takes pressure off other parts of the health system.”
The Guild has been instrumental in advocating for these changes and more, including to enable community pharmacists in all jurisdictions to provide treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) Recent research reveals strong public support for primary care from pharmacists, with 9 in 10 Australians backing moves to allow pharmacists to do more and 82% expressing confidence in pharmacists for non-complex health advice.
“These initiatives will make it easier for patients to access much-needed healthcare and free up GPs and hospitals to focus on more acute cases,” Professor Twomey added. “The Guild is committed to working with the Government to ensure primary healthcare services like vaccination and treatment for everyday conditions are accessible to all Australians.”
Patients can find their nearest community pharmacy offering RSV vaccinations, UTI treatment and more at www.findapharmacy.com.au.
