WARNINGS that plans to trial pharmacist prescribing in Queensland could increase the threat of antibiotic resistant infections are "disingenuous", the Pharmacy Guild of Australia says.
The Guild's comments came in response to a statement from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, which claimed the Queensland Government was "exposing the community to one of the biggest global health risks" by allowing pharmacists to prescribe antibiotics for urinary tract infections.
A Guild spokesperson told Pharmacy Daily that RACGP Queensland Chair, Dr Bruce Willett's (pictured), comments that "As doctors, we are seriously concerned about the growing rate of infections that are antibiotic resistant," did not hold water.
"The RACGP's claims that the trial could increase antibiotic resistance seem somewhat disingenuous given that doctors over-prescribing antibiotics has led to the current concerns," the Guild said.
"Pharmacists, as the medicines experts, are well placed to ensure prescribing for the conditions allowed under the trial (contraceptive pill and antibiotics for urinary tract infections) is targeted and effective.
"This sensible and progressive decision will provide Queensland patients with safe and convenient access to medicines as required, under appropriate protocols which will ensure collaboration with the patient's other health professionals including their doctor.
"This is a major step forward for patient care and sensible use of the community asset that is represented by highly-trained pharmacists distributed across the State in the most accessible health infrastructure of all -- community pharmacies."
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President, Dr Chris Freeman, said it was disappointing that the RACGP had chosen to once again diminish the role of pharmacists.
"It is essential that all health professionals work together for the benefit of patients, and the pharmacy profession will continue to do just that," he said.
"PSA supports collaborative prescribing of medicines by pharmacists to improve Australians' access to safe and effective healthcare...we will work with the Queensland Government to ensure that any prescribing trial is performed in a way that protects patient safety."
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