The ACT government plans to allow pharmacists to administer UTI medication and certain vaccines without a prescription. Under this new plan, pharmacists can hand over medications at the counter for Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Previously, local doctors heavily criticized a similar program by Queensland.
The trial will be run to treat uncomplicated UTIs in women by prescribing antibiotics. Rachel Stephen-Smith, ACT Health Minister said in a statement that the process will help patients with uncomplicated urinary tract infections to access treatment quickly. Moreover, it will reduce pressure on other primary healthcare providers. Furthermore, in March expanded vaccines will be available for pharmacies.
Necessary Training and Resources to deliver the plan
Amid criticism of Queensland’s pilot program, the Health Minister said, ‘’We will continue to work closely with the pharmacy sector to ensure that they have the necessary training and resources to deliver the services safely and effectively.
National medical bodies have already criticized the pilot program on several grounds. One of the major criticisms was the staff’s inability to diagnose a UTI lacking medical training. As a result, 270 women ended up with complications needing further treatment.
Maria Boulton, AMA Queensland president said, “It wasn’t a scientific trial, it was just a pilot, and it’s been called a success but the reality is when you look at the results, 270 women who were given an antibiotic during the trial ended up with complications and ended up needing further treatment,”
12 years of Training requires for diagnoses
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) surveyed Queensland pilot projects. It turns out multiple women had medical complications. Dr Boulton says it takes everyone who participated in the pilot program 12 years of medical training to avoid any serious complications.
She adds, ‘’”I don’t understand why the government just does not find adequate access for people to access their GP at the time that they need to access their GP, rather than play around with pilots that were unsuccessful.”
Meanwhile, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia which called it a ‘’win’’ for the territory. Simon Blacker, ACT branch president believes it will ease some pressure on the healthcare system.
