HEALTH Minister Greg Hunt is set to today announce a $52 million national meningococcal ACWY immunisation program, with the federal scheme expected to replace the existing patchwork of state-funded vaccination programs.
However a lack of uniformity in regulations across different jurisdictions mean pharmacists are unlikely to universally be able to assist in administering the vaccine.
Under the plan, the quadrivalent vaccine Nimenrix will be added to the National Immunisation Schedule from Apr 2019 for people aged 14-19 who will mostly receive it under school-based programs.
A catch-up program for those who miss out on school vaccinations will also be available via GPs.
Currently only Tasmanian pharmacists are able to vaccinate for meningococcal (PD 27 Jul 2018).
A Guild spokesperson said if the PBS-funded ACWY vaccine is added to the National Immunisation Program potentially pharmacists in Victoria and WA would have access, subject to state health authorities.
"We certainly need a uniform sensible approach to maximise access," the Guild said.
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