PBAC backs ‘continued dispensing’ powers for pharmacists
The expert medicines advisory committee says antihypertensives, diuretics, insulins and antivirals for HIV and hepatitis C should be on the list
Pharmacists could soon have permanent powers to dispense an extra month’s supply of common Schedule 4 drugs including some diabetes medications to patients in emergencies.
The PBAC is consulting on the future of so-called ‘continued dispensing arrangements’ for situations where it is “impractical” for a patient to see a doctor.
It has identified antihypertensives, diuretics, insulins, oral hypoglycaemics and antivirals for HIV and hepatitis C as “safe and appropriate” for an expanded list of eligible medicines.
The rules ordinarily let pharmacists provide one PBS quantity — usually a month’s supply — of statins or oral contraceptive pills without a script.
