Pharmacy medicine trial

delivers for the Central Coast

Local residents on the Central Coast have received 545 consultations for everyday medications from community pharmacists, under the NSW Government’s pharmacy prescription trial.

7 February 2024

 

THE Central Coast’s results in the pharmacy prescription trial was the second best take up in the State, with only residents in the City of Sydney accessing more medications, at 644. Newcastle came in third with 535.

 

NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said “Over the course of this trial so far, we have seen over 8,000 people across New South Wales access everyday medications that they would have otherwise had to go to a GP for.

 

“This is part of our broader effort to relieve the pressure on our GPs, which includes the rollout of 25 urgent care clinics across the state.”

 

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said “We know that it is becoming more difficult to access a GP on the Central Coast, let alone one that bulk bills.

 

“By enabling pharmacists to dispense these medicines, we are clearing the way for those who need to access GPs the most.

 

“The NSW Labor Government is also aware of the current cost of living challenges and this initiative also reduces some of the costs patients face when seeking everyday medications while still providing quality healthcare at the right time and in the right place.”

 

The trial allows pharmacists to provide medications for uncomplicated UTIs and low-risk oral contraceptive pills.

 

Allowing pharmacists to dispense these everyday medications takes pressure off local GPs.

 

It’s part of the NSW Government’s response to improve access to GPs for those who need them the most.

 

Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said “Everyone deserves timely, affordable access to medication and this trial is proving to be a roaring success in that regard.”

 

“Our community relies on affordable and accessible healthcare, that’s why rebuilding and supporting our essential services is a top priority for this government.”

 

Member for The Entrance, David Mehan said “This is great news and another milestone in our efforts to build a better public health system on the Coast.”

 

Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford, said “Allowing Central Coast residents to access certain medications from their expert pharmacist has been a very successful way to keep people healthy and well, reduce costs and free up our GPs.

 

“Given the difficulty and cost associated with visiting GPs on the Coast, this new service has made it easier for Coasties to access a range of essential medications.”

 

The initiative is also helping to address cost of living pressures by reducing the medical expenses patients face when seeking everyday medications.

 

Between 1 July 2023 and 18 January 2024, 534 Central Coast residents received consultations for uncomplicated UTIs and 13 for the resupply of the oral contraceptive pill.

 

More information about the clinical trial and for a list of community pharmacies participating in the trial, is available at ‘Community Pharmacy Pilot’ scheme.