Exclusive: Massive expansion of pharmacist prescribing on the cards
Queensland Health says it is exploring an expanded role for pharmacists, including medication supply and dispensing, prescribing and medication administration
The Queensland Government has drawn up a radical plan for pharmacists to diagnose and prescribe across 23 medical conditions, including hypertension, COPD and type 2 diabetes.
Due to start in June and covering the northern part of the state, its proposed pilot would also allow pharmacists to charge between $20 and $55 a consult.
And they will also be free to alter drug formulations without prior approval from the original prescriber if they believe it clinically necessary.
Outlined in a 34-page confidential draft report, leaked to Australian Doctor, the list of Schedule 4 drugs being considered for pharmacist prescribing is extensive.
