Interstate prescribing Bill tabled in Parliament

The Tasmanian Government is making it easier for Tasmanians to obtain vital medicines prescribed interstate, with legislation tabled today in Parliament.

Currently, pharmacists in Tasmania are not allowed by law to dispense certain prescriptions that have been written interstate, including the psychostimulants commonly used to treat ADHD, opioids, medicinal cannabis, and benzodiazepines.

The Poisons Amendment (Interstate Prescriptions) Bill will allow interstate prescriptions to be dispensed in Tasmania, enhancing access to medicines for Tasmanians and interstate travellers.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Bill is part of the Government’s reforms that will make the pharmacy sector work even better for everyday Tasmanians.

“Our Government is helping Tasmanians deal with the challenges they face, and these common-sense actions will improve access to care and treatment,” Minister Archer said.

“With the increased adoption of telehealth in recent years, a growing number of people access medical consultations interstate, but are unable to have some prescribed medicines locally dispensed.

“Under the Bill’s proposed changes, Tasmanian pharmacists will be able to dispense a prescription issued interstate for almost any medicine, as long as the prescription complies with the requirements that already apply in our State.

“Travellers to Tasmania from interstate who bring valid scripts with them will be able to have these dispensed by local pharmacists.

“I look forward to seeing this Bill progress and, once implemented, start delivering real benefits for Tasmanians.”

The commencement date of the new legislation will be confirmed and communicated once the Bill is passed. Communication with pharmacists, prescribers and patients will be part of the implementation.

More information about the proposed changes to interstate prescribing is available here.