REAL-TIME prescription monitoring (RTPM) will be introduced in Queensland in the second half of next year, the State's Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Steven Miles, says.
The implementation of an RTPM system in Qld moved a step forward on Tue with the passage of the Medicines and Poisons Act and the Therapeutic Goods Act through the state parliament.
"I made a commitment to deliver an RTPM system in Qld in 2020 and passing these Bills is the first major milestone in that process," he said.
"Medicines to be monitored will include controlled drugs such as pharmaceutical opioids and other prescription-only medicines associated with drug dependence and the potential to cause harm, such as benzodiazepines and products that combine codeine with other medicines."
Pharmacy Guild of Australia National Vice President, Trent Twomey, welcomed the progress, describing it as a common sense move that will benefit vulnerable patients.
"The Guild welcomes the Queensland Government's commitment and action to progress the introduction of real-time prescription monitoring in this State," he said.
"We will continue to work closely with the Government on the introduction of this system to ensure maximum outcomes for patients.
"We also commend Minister Miles for his efforts in driving the introduction of this important system."
RTPM systems are currently in place in Vic, Tas and the ACT.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 19 Sep 19
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 19 Sep 19
