Australians pharmacists call for Covid rapid antigen test overhaul

Stressed pharmacists are calling for major changes to the supply of rapid antigen tests as they struggle to cope with angry customers.

Exhausted pharmacists are calling on the Morrison government to make rapid antigen tests free and for supplies to be increased as they struggle to cope with the demands of angry customers.

There are concerns that the health and safety of pharmacy workers is being at risk, leaving them stressed and anxious.

It comes amid reports that some pharmacy owners are actually conducting the tests to meet the demand in the absence of an adequate supply of rapid antigen tests.

Professional Pharmacists Australia, which represents employee pharmacists, has raised concerns that the government’s undersupply of RATs could lead to an unsafe testing regime.

“While access to a limited number of tests for concession card holders was a small step in the right direction – it’s still grossly inadequate,” CEO Jill McCabe said.

Customers line up at Chemist Warehouse in Salamanca in search of rapid antigen tests (RAT). Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“We need to make RATs freely available to all, and we need to get the supply of these tests into a range of settings – not just in pharmacies.

“The tests could be supplied at state hubs, community locations or sent to people in their homes. This approach has worked in the UK, and it could work here.

“Because of the undersupply of tests and testing options, pharmacists are being inundated with calls for tests and are also expected to dispense medications, administer vaccinations and provide other health services. It simply isn’t safe.”

A pharmacy in Gawler Place off Adelaide’s Rundle Mall telling customers that they are out of rapid antigen tests. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Naomi Jellicoe

Dr Geoff March, President of Professional Pharmacists Australia said: “Employee pharmacists are completely exhausted, and they are incredibly anxious about their working environment.”

Dr March said there was also a concern that some people who test positive using a rapid antigen test are going to pharmacies for advice and urgent alerts were needed to prevent this.

“Government must get public health messages out on mass that drive people to the right health services and support them to make sound decisions to receive health care and also reduce the spread of the virus.

“The current situation is threatening the health and safety of pharmacy workers and the broader community.”

Originally published as Australians pharmacists call for Covid rapid antigen test overhaul