STATE and territory governments are being urged to adopt a consistent approach to pharmacist-administered vaccination services.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President, Dr Chris Freeman restated the society's desire for a uniform policy to be implemented nationwide following the Western Australian Government's decision to reduce the minimum age of patients to whom trained pharmacists could provide influenza vaccinations.
"PSA welcomes the move by the Tasmanian and Western Australian Government to allow trained pharmacists to administer the flu vaccination to people aged 10 years and over, and would like to see the same changes implemented in all states and territories," he said.
"PSA believes that a nationally-consistent approach to pharmacist-administered vaccinations will reduce confusion, ensure better access for patients to quality vaccination services and utilise the pharmacy workforce appropriately.
"PSA has consistently called for, and will continue to call for, equitable access for consumers to a wider range of pharmacist-administered vaccines across all states and territories and enhanced recognition of the role of pharmacist immunisers and the evidence-based benefits they provide to consumers, the health system, and to public health."
Freeman said the roll out of pharmacy vaccine services in 2014 had boosted vaccination rates and reduced the burden on other health services.
Meanwhile the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has not yet responded to a request for comment from Pharmacy Daily, regarding the Western Australian decision to allow pharmacists to provide flu immunisations to 10 year olds and up.
However, on 20 May, RACGP President, Dr Harry Nespolon, described the Tasmanian Government's decision to allow pharmacists to immunise children aged 10 and older as "baffling".
"All patients, no matter their age, should receive their flu vaccination from their usual GP," he said
"Only GPs can provide this comprehensive and holistic care."
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