CHEMIST Care Now is being expanded to make healthcare more accessible, and is designed to save time and money.
In July, adult women can access the oral contraceptive pill directly from their pharmacist with a free consultation – no prescription or GP visit is required, they will only need to pay for the cost of the medication at the counter.
It’s a big help for regional Victorians facing long GP wait times and limited access.
The pharmacists who deliver this service have completed a postgraduate training module to keep women safe.
Before dispensing the medication, pharmacists must undertake a thorough consultation in a private consultation room and outline any risks.
Consultations will include advice about other options, including long-acting reversable contraception.
Also from July, Victorians will be able to access treatment for mild dermatitis and acne such as topical retinol and tretinoin.
Acute and mild musculoskeletal pain – including minor sprains, strains, and joint pain – can now be treated at your local chemist.
Highly trained pharmacists can provide certain anti-inflammatory medicines for short-term use, with no GP visit required.
Since launching, Chemist Care Now has delivered almost 100,000 services.
Sixty-seven per cent of services have been for women, including more than 43,000 treatments for uncomplicated UTIs and more than 20,000 consultations for the resupply of hormonal contraception.
Around 27 per cent of pharmacies offering Chemist Care Now are in rural and regional areas.
Minister for Health Harriet Shing said this would help people save time and cost closer to home.
“Chemist Care Now is saving Victorians time and out of pocket costs by delivering care, closer to home through a trusted, qualified local pharmacist,” she said.
Parliamentary Secretary for Women’s Health Kat Theophanous said the changes were important for Victorian women.
“Safe access to the pill at their local chemist is an important and practical change to support Victorian women,” she said.