PHARMACISTS should be given a lead role in patient care whenever medicine is used in their treatment, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President, Dr Chris Freeman (pictured) believes.
Commenting on a report released by researchers from the University of NSW and the University of Western Australia, which raised concerns over the rate of polypharmacy in Australia, Freeman said it highlighted the need for pharmacists to be given a greater role in the management of patients.
The report found more than a third of Australians aged 70 and older were taking five or more Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PSB) listed medicines on a continuous basis, with rates of polypharmacy highest amongst women and those over 80.
"Polypharmacy can be appropriate, but there is substantial evidence for its potential for harm and the importance of rationalising unnecessary medicines, particularly in older people," the authors said.
Freeman called on the Federal Government to provide funding to support pharmacist-led interventions.
"It is PSA's firm view that pharmacists must be more involved in the care of patients whenever medicines are part of their health management plan, and particularly in the context of chronic disease management," he said.
"Access to additional funding models, such as the Medicare Benefits Schedule, will ensure pharmacists can fulfil this vital role in Australia's healthcare system.
"PSA and the pharmacy profession stand ready to work with government and consumers to ensure medicine safety is addressed for the benefit of all Australians."
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