8CPA focus not solely on pharmacy dispensing revenue, says Health Minister

Pharma News: Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler MP, highlighted the critical role pharmacists play in shaping the future of healthcare in his speech at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Conference held in Sydney during the weekend.

“It’s an important time in our nation’s history,” Minister Butler declared, referring to the upcoming vote to recognise First Nations people’s enduring presence in Australia’s history. “The longest, oldest continuously surviving culture on the planet here for 65,000 years – a fact that should be enshrined in our nation’s founding document, the Constitution.”

Minister Butler acknowledged the critical importance of amplifying First Nations people’s voices, especially in health policy.

“The yawning gap in life expectancy, the challenges of cancer deaths, kidney disease, and mental health issues within this community demand our urgent attention,” he stated.

As the speech transitioned to the broader challenges in the Australian healthcare system, Minister Butler stressed the pressure healthcare professionals face daily. From a rapidly aging population to the relentless increase in chronic diseases, he acknowledged the strain on medical facilities and the financial burden on patients.

“Our hospitals are grappling with a mountain of deferred care, and doctors’ and specialists’ waiting lists are growing longer,” he revealed, recognising the need for immediate action and modernisation.

Amid the pressing challenges, Minister Butler highlighted the important role of pharmacists in easing the burden on the healthcare system. He commended their resilience and the essential services they provide, keeping their doors open during the pandemic.

“Change is the only constant,” said Dr Fei Sim, PSA National President, drawing from her father’s teachings. Embracing this dynamic environment, she expressed unwavering belief in the positive trajectory of the pharmacy profession.

The central theme of the day was clear – pharmacists can do more, and the Australian health system needs them to do more. Dr Sim advocated for better care for vulnerable groups, including those in rural and remote communities, First Nations people, and those with multiple comorbidities.

Minister Butler addressed the transition to 60-day prescriptions, recognising the challenges faced by rural and regional pharmacies. With a commitment to support these integral parts of the community, he announced a new Regional Pharmacy Transition Allowance of $148.2 million over four years to ease the financial impact and drive growth opportunities.

“We want pharmacists to work to the top of their scope, benefitting more Australians with their experience and care,” he exclaimed.

He highlighted the crucial role of pharmacists in areas such as chronic disease management, medication reviews, and preventive healthcare. By optimising their scope of practice, pharmacists could work hand in hand with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

“As we look towards the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA), we envision a future where the focus is not solely on dispensing revenue for pharmacy owners but on enhancing the professional standards and development of pharmacists,” Minister Butler asserted. He assured the audience that the government would prioritise pharmacists’ input in shaping the 8CPA and fostering a strong collaboration between the government and the pharmacy community.

Addressing Minister Butler, and the Hon Emma McBride, Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Dr Sim highlighted that pharmacists are the solution to strengthening primary care. With an aging population and increasing medicine usage, she underlined the importance of pharmacists in preventing medication misadventures and improving access to care, especially in light of the ongoing GP access crisis.

Minister Butler shared anecdotes from his visits to various pharmacies, where he witnessed first-hand the positive impact of pharmacist-prescribed medicines and innovative business models that catered to specific community needs.

He reiterated his commitment to working closely with the pharmacy community and the PSA to shape a healthcare system that was responsive, inclusive, and patient-centred. He urged pharmacists to embrace new opportunities and seize the potential for growth.

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