Pharmacists rejoice at new powers but AMA says “patients at risk”

People with a range of ailments which now need a GP visit will be able to pop into a pharmacy for diagnosis and treatment, but the AMA does not back the changes.

More treatments now requiring a GP visit will be available from pharmacies in the future, leaving pharmacists celebrating and GPs fuming.

A state government moves means people will be able to go to a pharmacy for diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as ear infections, wound management, gastro, acne, reflux and muscle and joint pain.

Pharmacists who have undertaken additional postgraduate training will be able to assess, manage and treat such conditions.

Health Minister Chris Picton said the move would increase access to fast, convenient healthcare — but the Australian Medical Association says it will put “patients at risk.”

Health Minister Chris Picton. Picture: Russell Millard Photography

The move follows the rollout of changes allowing women to access medication for urinary tract infections and a resupply of the oral contraceptive pill through a pharmacy without needing a doctor’s appointment.

More than 4130 UTI pharmacy services have been provided since the service started in March.

The oral contraceptive pill resupply service introduced in May has had more than 380 South Australian women receive a resupply of their medication without needing to see a GP.

The program is expected to start as early as 2026, pending completion of the required training.

“We are making it easier for South Australians to access the healthcare they need, when they need it at a convenient location,” Mr Picton said.

“This new program will empower our highly-trained pharmacists to undertake consultations for additional health issues including ear infections and skin problems.”

Australian Medical Association SA president Dr John Williams.

SA Health Chief Pharmacist Naomi Burgess said: “It gives our consumers and our families an additional care pathway for a broader range of mild and acute conditions, so, if they are experiencing one of these health issues, they won’t need to wait as long or make an unnecessary visit to the emergency department.”

SA president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Nick Panayiaris, said the move “turns the near 500 community pharmacies in South Australia into health care destinations.”

However, Australian Medical Association state president Dr John Williams warned it will put patients “at risk” and said governments should instead focus on investing in an overhaul of Medicare to support for general practice.

“Pharmacists play a very important role in our health system, but there is no substitute for high-quality GP care,” he said.

“As GPs we’re trained 10 to 12 years to do our job of diagnosis and decision making. Pharmacists are trained well for dispensing medications and medication management.

“Increasing pharmacists’ prescribing powers poses serious health implications for patients. Convenience should never outrank quality GP care.”