COMMUNITY pharmacies are unlikely to know whether they are eligible to participate in the COVID-19 vaccination campaign until May, as the Pharmacy Programs Administrator (PPA) seeks to clarify information provided during the Expression of Interest (EoI) process.
Pharmacies had been expecting to be told whether their EoI application had been successful or not on Fri, however the PPA issued a letter stating, "this process has resulted in a large number of community pharmacies responding, which is a true reflection of the commitment and dedication of the community pharmacy sector".
"All submissions have now been through a robust initial assessment process," the PPA said.
"To complete the EoI assessment, the process has identified the need to further clarify the information provided.
"This will enable the Department [of Health] to have a clear view on the expected high level of participation of community pharmacies ahead of the vaccine rollout under Phase 2a [of the national program] and beyond."
The PPA said the clarification process will be completed in Apr, with final assessment activities to be undertaken in May, stressing "individual pharmacies are expected to be notified of the outcome of their EoI well ahead of the commencement of Phase 2a".
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia contacted the Department of Health to flag its concerns over the PPA's letter.
"The Guild has been working with the Department to raise our concerns about the lack of detail being provided to community pharmacies, particularly around the selection process and when all pharmacies deemed suitable will be brought on to provide COVID-19 vaccinations," a spokesperson said.
Capital Chemist Group Business Manager, Andrew Topp, told Pharmacy Daily that pharmacies across the group were disappointed not to receive approval, as had been expected, but stressed they were ready to start vaccinating patients as soon as the vaccines arrive.
However, he noted that the lack of clarity around stock ordering and booking systems was a concern, saying they would be "fundamental to the success of the program".
"Having clarity on these things is so important," he said.
"We need details about the infrastructure to support the vaccination campaign."
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