PHARMACISTS in West Australia will be able to provide an expanded range of vaccinations to patients aged 16 and over, following an announcement by the State's Health Minister, Roger Cook (PD breaking news).
Speaking at the Pharmacy Guild of Australia's Pharmacy WA Forum, Cook revealed that pharmacists in the state will be able to provide the dTpa (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and meningococcal vaccines.
"All other Australian states and territories have extended the range of vaccines available via pharmacy without a prescription," Cook said.
"This simple change supplements existing immunisation programs and brings Western Australia into line with the rest of the nation, it improves national consistency in relation to pharmacist-issued vaccines.
"If you are an adult relative, such as a grandparent, who will be coming into contact with a new baby you can now get a booster shot for whooping cough from your local pharmacist. It will protect your grandchild from a potentially fatal disease.
"People should check with their local pharmacist to see when they will commence administering these vaccines."
Guild WA President, Andrew Ngeow (pictured, right with Minister Cook), said the move demonstrated the Minister's understanding and support for the role of pharmacists in the community.
"We acknowledge the Government for acting to protect our community by providing access to these life-saving vaccines for all West Australians no matter where they live," he said.
"There are community pharmacies in 40 towns with no GP service [in WA]. We look forward to a comprehensive vaccination program raising the level of protection and bringing immunisation within easier reach for all West Australians."
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) WA Branch President, Dr Fei Sim, also welcomed the move saying it would "significantly increase the immunisation rates within the community".
"While Australia has a strong childhood vaccination program, there are many areas in Australia with vaccination rates still below the level of coverage required for herd immunity, including for dTpa and MMR," she said.
"Pharmacists can play a key role in addressing this issue."
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