Thursday, 4 May 2023

Pharmacy dispensing changes

Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (22:25): (194) My adjournment matter is for the Premier. The action I seek is that he advocate to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about the widespread concerns held by local pharmacies over the new 60-day dispensing changes. Recently owners from all over Eastern Victoria Region have raised concerns about the federal Labor government’s plans to change the law to allow for 60-day dispensing of certain medications. There are 325 medications that are eligible in different strengths and combinations across 933 pharmaceutical benefits scheme codes. Of these 933 codes the TGA currently lists 133 of them as having existing shortages. The move to 60-day dispensing puts an increased pressure on our already fragile supply chain, and pharmacies are concerned that some patients may miss out on their vital medication. Amongst the list of drugs that are eligible for the proposed 60-day dispensing are medications for diabetes, blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease and depression. These patients simply cannot go without.

Pharmacies have also expressed worries over the severe financial impact that 60-day dispensing will have on the running of their small businesses. When the UK went to 60-day dispensing of medication, 1000 pharmacies had to close. When New Zealand went to 60-day dispensing of medication, 70 pharmacies were forced to close. Without proper consultation there is a real risk to the continued viability of many of the regional pharmacies that we all depend on, particularly in my area. Many local pharmacies go above and beyond; they do not just dispense medication. This decision could mean closure of home deliveries, it could mean closing on Sundays or it could mean a cutting down of employment of locals and the pharmacy not being there when people need them. I would encourage everybody, across the chambers, to visit their local community pharmacies and ask them about how this change is going to impact them.