The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Northern Territory Branch, strongly supports the Country Liberal Party's pre-election commitment regarding the Northern Territory Community Pharmacy Scope of Practice program.
Trained community pharmacists will be able to treat 21 everyday health conditions, such as school sores, shingles, and oral contraception, under the Scope of Practice programme. Antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) will be one of the first services offered. Notably, the Northern Territory remains the only place where women cannot access antibiotic treatment for UTIs from their local pharmacy.
“This initiative is critical to improving healthcare access and efficiency for Territorians and represents a transformative step forward for our healthcare system,” said Peter Hatswell, President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NT Branch.
"By enabling community pharmacists to manage a range of common health conditions we can ensure patients receive the care they need, when and where they need it,” Mr Hatswell said.
Thousands of Australian women have already been treated for uncomplicated UTIs or issued a repeat prescription for the oral contraceptive pill in other jurisdictions, highlighting the growing trust and demand for community pharmacy-based healthcare.
Internationally, countries including the UK, Canada, and New Zealand have successfully implemented expanded pharmacy services, leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced pressure on primary care and emergency services.
"This program will not only save time and money for patients but also alleviate pressure on our overstretched healthcare system.
"By allowing pharmacists to manage common conditions, we can free up GP appointments for more complex cases and reduce unnecessary emergency department visits," Mr Hatswell explained.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia NT Branch commends the CLP's commitment to improving healthcare access and acknowledges the dedication of community pharmacists across the Territory.