Should pharmacists be able to prescribe common medicines like antibiotics for UTIs? We asked 5 experts
- Written by Fron Jackson-Webb, Deputy Editor and Senior Health Editor
Victoria is the latest state to move towards pharmacist prescribing, with Premier Daniel Andrews promising a trial[1] allowing pharmacists to prescribe antibiotics for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and medicines for other conditions if re-elected.
UTIs are common[2], especially among women, with half getting at least one in their lifetime.
Last week the New South Wales government announced[3] a trial allowing pharmacists to give a range of travel vaccinations and prescribe antibiotics for UTIs. And on Tuesday, the Northern Territory passed legislation[4] to expand the role of pharmacists.
Queensland[5] was the first state to expand this scope of practice – pharmacists can prescribe medicines for UTIs, after a two-year trial. The state is now trialling a pilot program[6] allowing pharmacists to prescribe for a range of other common conditions.
Proponents of pharmacist prescribing argue it expands health-care options for people who can’t access a GP and highlights pharmacists’ expertise with medicines. Meanwhile, those opposed raise concerns about safety and antibiotic resistance.
So should pharmacists be able to prescribe common medicines such as antibiotics for UTIs? We asked 5 experts.
