By expanding the role of pharmacists, the Chronic Disease Management pilot program – announced today by the Victorian Government – will see pharmacists and GPs work together to help patients manage chronic conditions and medication.
PSA National President Joe Demarte urged pharmacists in Victoria to nominate for the trial, which will allow eligible patients to visit their local pharmacist to monitor chronic conditions and manage medications.
"As the most accessible health professionals in Australia, pharmacists play an important role in providing health care in local communities – so we encourage pharmacists to get involved in this important trial," Demarte said.
Demarte congratulated the Victorian Government on launching the 18-month trial, which provides an evidence-based and contemporary approach to optimising the health workforce.
"We applaud the new trial that will enable pharmacists to deliver primary care services to patients and help ease pressures on the health system as well as meet the growing challenges of chronic disease in local communities," Demarte said.
Some services pharmacists will offer under the trial will include renewing prescriptions or making dose adjustments to medication, which are within the current scope of practice for pharmacists.
"The Chronic Disease Management pilot program aligns with evidence-based practice and models of care that are working effectively internationally and we welcome the opportunity for pharmacists to participate in this trial with GPs," Demarte said.
On a national level, PSA is leading support for pharmacists to work in GP clinics as part of a collaborative primary healthcare model to improve health outcomes for all Australians.
"International experience shows pharmacists in a general practice setting improve patient health and also strengthen links between local general practices and community pharmacies," Demarte said.
Expressions of interest are now open until February 24, 2017, click here for details>>
