Government expands pharmacists’ prescribing while GPs warn of fragmented care

The federal government has announced two national pharmacy trials as part of its $573.3 million women’s health package, enabling access to contraceptives and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) through community pharmacies.

“With over 6,000 community pharmacies across Australia, we are uniquely positioned to provide convenient and high-quality healthcare services to women in urban, regional, and remote areas,” said Pharmacy Guild National President, Professor Trent Twomey.

Under the trials, eligible women and girls will be able to receive treatment for an uncomplicated UTI, as well as initiation and ongoing supply of hormonal contraception from their local pharmacy. These services will attract out-of-pocket costs for most patients.

However, approximately 250,000 women with a concession card will be eligible for a free consultation with a community pharmacist for both UTI treatment and hormonal contraception.

The initiative has drawn criticism from the Australian Medical Association (AMA), which argues that bypassing general practitioners undermines best-practice medical prescribing and oversight.

“We strongly opposed these trials being implemented in states and territories, due to the fragmentation of care and undermining the role of family GPs, who are more qualified to guide the treatment of UTIs,” said AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen.

She added, “The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has previously said the risks of the pill mean it should only be prescribed by a doctor, and we note that the government’s commitment only extends to supporting eligible patients who have already been prescribed oral contraception by a GP.

“With better access to long-acting reversible contraceptives, patients should really be having a conversation with their GP about what is the safest and most effective option for them, and this includes concession card holders who often face no out-of-pocket costs for a visit to a GP.”

Despite the debate, community pharmacies are set to commence these services from 1 July 2025.

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