A nation-leading pilot program will enable pharmacists to prescribe medication to Tasmanian aged care residents in collaboration with their general practitioner.
Implemented in coming months, this nation-leading pilot program is a key recommendation from the independent Pharmacist Scope of Practice Review commissioned by the Rockliff Liberal Government, to provide a comprehensive assessment of the role of pharmacists in Tasmania.
Minister for Health, Guy Barnett, said the initiative would improve the medication safety of residents and lead to a better quality of life, helping prevent hospital presentations.
“We know many GPs spend valuable time reissuing prescriptions for residents, rather than spending that time addressing residents emerging health needs,’’ Minister Barnett said.
“I am confident that pharmacists working collaboratively with GPs and prescribing within the safeguards of a treatment plan approved by the GP will significantly improve patient care.
“Our Government will continue to work with pharmacy, medical, and residential aged care facility representative groups as we pilot this nation-leading change in several sites.”
An implementation plan for the recommendations from the independent review by KPMG is being developed.
The Rockliff Liberal Government is doing what matters for all Tasmanians by delivering on our long-term health plan.