South Australians will soon have more healthcare options thanks to a new program that allows pharmacists to treat a range of common conditions. Instead of needing to visit a GP, people can go to their local pharmacy for quick treatments for issues like ear infections, wound care, gastro, acne, reflux, and muscle and joint pain.
On World Pharmacists Day (Wednesday September 25th), the State Government announced this initiative to improve healthcare access and to relive the pressure on the states healthcare system. The program builds on previous successful pharmacy services, such as allowing women to treat UTIs and resupply oral contraceptives without a doctor’s appointment.
Since March, over 4,130 UTI treatments have been provided to women through community pharmacies, leading to a 21% drop in UTI hospital visits (during that period). Women aged 18 to 65 can consult trained pharmacists to receive a one-time course of antibiotics without needing a prescription. Plus, more than 380 women have used the oral contraceptive resupply service since its launch in May, allowing them to get their medication without having to visit a GP.
“PSA [Pharmaceutical Society of Australia] is already delivering scope of practice training to pharmacists in South Australia – UTI, resupply of the oral contraceptive and Mental Health First Aid training,” Pharmaceutical Society of Australia SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley said.
“Outcomes to date from these programs are exceeding expectations and translating into direct benefits for the South Australian community, including reduced emergency department presentations.”
The new initiative will allow pharmacists who have received extra training to manage a broader range of health conditions, including:
- Skin issues (like shingles, psoriasis, and dermatitis)
- Ear infections
- Wound management
- Nausea and vomiting
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Allergic rhinitis
The Office of the Chief Pharmacist will work with universities and training providers to create specialised courses for pharmacists to make sure they are well-prepared for these responsibilities. The program is expected to launch as early as 2026, depending on the completion of the necessary training.
“Our profession is continually evolving to better meet the increasingly complex health needs of Australians, our ageing population and overstretched health system,” Pharmaceutical Society of Australia SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley said.
“South Australian health consumers need pharmacists delivering services through the Pharmacy Scope of Practice program. They need all pharmacists doing more to support safe and effective use of medicines and greater access to care when and where they need it.”
The introduction of three 24/7 pharmacies in Adelaide has also made a difference. Over 83,000 South Australians have received after-hours access to medicines and health advice, with many reporting they would have gone to an emergency department if the pharmacy hadn’t been open.
The State Government is also improving pharmacist roles in other areas, including mental health first aid, access to palliative care medications, vaccination services, and medication reviews for individuals leaving hospitals.
“We are making it easier for South Australians to access the healthcare they need, when they need it at a convenient location,” Minister for Health and Wellbeing Chris Picton said.
“This new program will empower our highly-trained pharmacists to undertake consultations for additional health issues including ear infections and skin problems. It will provide more timely access to care for a broader range of conditions while also helping to reduce pressure across our busy health system.”
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