THE Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has welcomed the Northern Territory Government's decision to take a measured, consultative approach to potential changes in pharmacists' scope of practice, acknowledging their vital role in the Territory's stretched health system.
RACGP Northern Territory chair Dr Sam Heard said the establishment of an expert advisory group signals a constructive, evidencebased way forward that recognises the expertise of both pharmacists and GPs.
"Bringing pharmacists and doctors together around the same table is the right approach," Dr Heard said.
"Pharmacists are incredibly important to healthcare in the NT.
"We have a scarce workforce of GPs and pharmacists, and we need to use their skills in the safest and most effective way."
Dr Heard highlighted that pharmacists already play a critical role in medicines management, patient education and improving access to care, and that their contribution will be increasingly important as demand grows.
The RACGP supports the expansion of pharmacist roles when implemented through well-designed, collaborative models that ensure strong clinical governance and patient safety.
"Pharmacists can do more in providing services from a retail environment, but they are not a substitute for the comprehensive, person-centred care provided by a patient's GP over time," Dr Heard said.
"GPs specialise in managing the healthcare of the whole person - there are risks in treating symptoms in isolation and delaying a thorough medical assessment.
"We look forward to working constructively with government and pharmacy colleagues to strengthen patient care across the Territory," he concluded. KB
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