Pharmacy services set to expand for Territorians

25 October 2024

The CLP is delivering on its election commitment to expand the health services community pharmacists can provide Territorians by commencing uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnosis and treatment from Monday, 28 October.

A new Scheduled Substance Treatment Protocol (SSTP) means pharmacists can diagnose and treat uncomplicated UTIs after completing approved training.

This expanded scope of practice includes the ability to provide a range of treatments, including Schedule 4 medicines such as antibiotics.

Minister for Health Steve Edgington said the measures would alleviate pressure on primary care services and hospital emergency departments, as well as be more convenient for patients, reducing time and costs.

“Community pharmacists are highly trained and regulated health professionals who have the skills, knowledge and competence to provide additional services,” said Mr Edgington.

“These initiatives encourage pharmacists to play an active role in increasing patient access to care while reducing the burden on other health services for conditions that can be safely managed in pharmacies.”

As part of the reforms to the health services provided by community pharmacists, 19 other conditions are under consideration to be included in the expanded scope of practice for pharmacies over the next 12 months.

The Northern Territory has 41 community pharmacies located across Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, many of which are open after hours, and seven days per week.

Mr Edgington said all states and territories across Australia were working to increase the scope of practice at pharmacies to improve patient access and strengthen their primary health systems.

“The CLP Government is working to provide additional services at community pharmacies to help improve access to care, such as treatments for up to 23 uncomplicated conditions such as acute nausea and vomiting, impetigo (school sores), mild to moderate allergic skin conditions, simple wounds and ear infections as well as increasing the range of vaccines available,” said Mr Edgington.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia NT branch president Peter Hatswell said pharmacists were ready to provide the treatment.

“We thank the Chief Minister and her Government for prioritising the health of Territorians by empowering community pharmacists to do more for their patients, so soon after taking office,” said Mr Hatswell.

“The NT Government’s commitment to empower pharmacies to do more for patients positions the Territory as a leading Australian jurisdiction in the delivery of primary health care.”

The expanded scope of conditions covers the following:

HEALTH CONDITIONS

• Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux
• Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hay fever
• School sores
• Shingles
• Eczema
• Mild psoriasis flare ups
• Mild to moderate acne
• Minor wound management
• Acute Diffuse Otitis Externa
• Acute Otitis Media
• Mild pain and inflammation
• UTI

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

• Cardiovascular disease risk reduction (including blood pressure and cholesterol management)
• Asthma
• Obstructive pulmonary disease

WELLBEING SERVICES

• Quit smoking support
• Hormonal contraception initiation
• Oral contraceptive pill
• Oral health screening and fluoride application
• Travel health
• Weight and obesity management

Media Contact - Russel Guse – 0488 047 830

Northern Territory Government