LOCAL Federal Government MPs have addressed pharmacists directly at Bridgewater in a bid to address concerns about changes to prescriptions.
Earlier this month, Lyons Labor MHR Brian Mitchell and Franklin Labor MHR Julie Collins spoke to pharmacists from across Tasmania.
The changed policy will enable doctors to give patients a 60-day supply of medication, rather than the usual 30 days.
“This would reduce fees and charges that patients would usually need to pay monthly to the pharmacies, but the Pharmacy Guild and regional pharmacists are concerned in a drop in income that could affect their business,’’ Mr Mitchell said.
“Pharmacists have shared with me their concerns about potential impacts on their businesses, which I will forward to the Minister.
“It is important their questions are answered and that support is made available where necessary.
“A key issue that’s put to me is the dispensing fees are being used to informally cross-subsidise other services, like over the counter advice.
“Pharmacists say if the fees go down, they have no way to meet the costs of those other services.
“I’m proposing to the Minister that we introduce a schedule that addresses these issues.
“We will continue to work with the community pharmacy sector and I will ensure any unanticipated consequences are dealt with swiftly so we can ensure the ongoing health and strength of our vital rural and regional community pharmacies.”