Thousands of NSW residents will be able to receive treatment for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) at their local pharmacy, with landmark reforms introduced under the former Nationals Government now made permanent.
Following a successful trial that began in November 2022, pharmacists will have the ability to provide consultations and prescriptions for UTIs from June 1.
Shadow Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor welcomed the commitment, which will significantly improve healthcare accessibility for patients and relieve pressure on emergency departments and GPs.
“Our trial benefitted more than 16,000 women and reinforced that empowering our trusted pharmacists to work their full scope of practice is a gamechanger for so many, particularly those in our regional communities” Mrs Taylor said.
“I’ve heard loud and clear from women, particularly those living in rural and regional NSW, how much of a difference these transformational reforms have made to their lives.
“This is about easing the pressure on our GPs and ensuring women can get the health care they need when they need it.”
The NSW Pharmacy trial also included the prescription of the oral contraceptive pill for eligible women.
“While I am thrilled the prescription treatment of UTIs has been made permanent, I would like to see the same happen for the pill,” Mrs Taylor said.
“The NSW Nationals are committed to delivering tangible outcomes that improve people’s lives and will hold NSW Labor to account to ensure continued improvements in this space.”
