AUSTRALIAN women can now access treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections at community pharmacies nationwide, without needing a prescription.
This development comes after the Northern Territory authorised community pharmacists to expand their services (PD 28 Oct), marking a significant step in women's healthcare access.
"Women are busy mothers, carers, bosses who need timely, easy-to-access relief to get on with their day and prevent long-term health complications," said Trent Twomey, National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.
He emphasised that harmonising community pharmacy services across Australia will enable better, faster treatment for common conditions.
This initiative is part of a broader transformation of women's health services available at pharmacies.
In many areas, women can already access resupplies of oral contraceptives, with some states even allowing pharmacists to initiate hormonal contraceptives.
In addition, they can treat conditions affecting children, like asthma and ear infections.
With over 6,000 community pharmacies nationwide, this expansion supports the modern healthcare needs of Australians while easing pressure on GPs and emergency departments.
Twomey highlighted that "82% of Australians trust their pharmacist to provide health advice", and extended pharmacy services provide convenience for patients across urban, regional, and remote areas. JG
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