THE University of Newcastle has commenced the first semester of its expanded scope of practice training program for pharmacists this week, with teaching for the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) program to start mid-Feb.
The Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing programs will prepare pharmacists to deliver a broader range of clinical services, including everyday health conditions like ear infections and hay fever.
Mario Barone, president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch, said pharmacists are ready to do more and are backing that commitment with training and education.
"This is about equipping our workforce to provide vital services that ease pressure on hospitals and improve access for patients," Barone said.
Pharmacists will gain the skills needed to provide expert, accessible care for 23 common conditions - from reflux and acute nausea to allergies, asthma, hypertension and oral contraception.
Meanwhile, those based in MMM3-7 areas can apply for a scholarship through the NSW Rural Doctor's Network, which aims to ensure rural and regional communities benefit from improved access to care.
"This is a game-changer for patients in rural and remote areas," Barone added.
"With the right training and support, pharmacists can provide essential services where they're needed most."
NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said, "We are empowering pharmacists to treat some non-complex conditions to relieve pressure on our GPs and make it easier for people to access care when they need it."
"We support the national approach to the expansion of scope of practice, which we are pleased is progressing," he added.
A 2025 analysis from Deloitte Access Economics commissioned by the Guild estimated that expanded community pharmacy services in NSW could free up 191,974 hospital bed days, save 81,129 hours of Emergency Department wait time during regular hours, and avoid 156,647 outpatient service events each year, resulting in savings to NSW Health of $158.4 million (PD 10 Dec 2025). KB
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