From 1 July 2024, eligible community pharmacies can access funding to employ on-site pharmacists to work in eligible residential aged care homes in a clinical role. Eligible residential aged care homes can also engage an on-site pharmacist.
A residential aged care home must first attempt to access an on-site pharmacist through a community pharmacy of their choice. If the community pharmacy chooses not to participate, is unable to participate, or the residential aged care home is unable to come to a suitable agreement with the community pharmacy, the residential aged care home will be eligible to access funds directly to engage an on-site pharmacist.
Participating community pharmacies can claim funds for pharmacists’ salaries through the Pharmacy Programs Administrator.
Residential aged care homes that engage pharmacists can seek reimbursement through the Pharmacy Programs Administrator from 1 October 2024, when the payment administration system is established.
It is optional for community pharmacies and residential aged care homes to participate in the measure.
This measure is in line with the government’s commitment to improve medication management and safety in residential aged care homes.
Having on-site pharmacists in residential aged care homes will:
- improve understanding and supervision of residents’ medication needs
- improve safety and support the appropriate use of high-risk medications
- enable the day-to-day review of medications and prompt issue resolution
- provide easy access to pharmacist advice for staff and residents
- improve coordination with local general practitioners, nurses, and community pharmacy.
