GPs can request COVID-19 antivirals for their Prescriber’s Bag, with the Federal Government swiftly implementing a PBAC recommendation from two weeks ago. 

But the government says it expects GPs to conserve dispensing of molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for “urgent circumstances”, such as when patients are at high risk of severe COVID-19 and cannot easily get to a pharmacy or arrange pharmacy delivery. 

“Examples include a patient in a rural or remote area where the nearest community pharmacy is closed,” the PBS factsheet says. 

“Prescriber Bag supplies are not intended to be used for reason of convenience only… Patients should use a PBS prescription wherever possible.”