Pharmacy Daily | Meds list slashed as measure expires

FOLLOWING the expiration of the National Health (Continued Dispensing -- Emergency Measure) Determination 2023 on Sun, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, (PSA) has again voiced significant concerns over the reduced access to medication for emergency dispensing.

The number of medicines available for this purpose has plummeted from 450 to just 150.

PSA President A/Prof Fei Sim has expressed disappointment over the measure lapsing, emphasising the importance of having robust initiatives in place to ensure the uninterrupted use of medicines.

"Not all emergences are natural disasters that can be responded to nationally," Sim explained to Pharmacy Daily.

"Whether it be bereavement, domestic violence, a house fire or car crash or any other personal emergency, the reality is that Australians can be suddenly separated from their medicine on any given day," Sim said.

"It is crucial that our health system supports continuous access to essential medications, no matter the circumstances."

She further stressed the need for a permanent expansion of continued dispensing to include all PBS medicines, to provide Australians with peace of mind regarding their medication needs.

With the conclusion of the emergency dispensing measure, PSA Chief Executive Officer, Adj A/Prof Steve Morris (pictured), highlighted the immediate risks to patients who might now find themselves unable to access their medication in a timely manner.

"Continued dispensing has been a safety net, ensuring continuity of care when patients cannot consult their GP," Morris explained.

"The restriction to just 150 medicines significantly narrows the scope of this vital service."

"The PSA is actively urging the Federal Government to collaborate with state and territory governments to reinstate and make permanent these critical measures, to safeguard emergency access to a broad range of medicines for all Australians," he said. JG