The recent declaration that pharmacists are to be authorised to give out prescriptions is an appreciated reorganisation. The confirmation of this shift made by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly follows the final report’s release by a specialist taskforce on broadening pharmacy roles.
The benefits are apparent. As GP resources throughout the country are increasingly strained, this scheme aims to resolve the escalating bottleneck issue where people are spending excessive time waiting for doctors appointments and prescriptions for regular illnesses. It’s logical for pharmacists, who are highly skilled medical professionals, to take on part of this burden. Comparable strategies are already functioning in countries such as Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
By early 2025, the plan is to allow pharmacists to prescribe medication for eight pre-determined conditions. This number will be gradually increased over the subsequent two years. As of this September, pharmacists can also prolong prescription validity from the six-month maximum limit to 12 months.
For patients not covered by medical cards, pharmacists will have the freedom to decide their charge rates, similar to general practitioners. Over time, it will be intriguing to see if this will result in meaningful competition or price reductions on prescriptions. After all, it’s generally easier to switch pharmacy than to change your doctor.
However, an immediate hurdle for the Department of Health is to agree with pharmacists regarding the prescription fees for public system patients. These negotiations may become contentious as they are linked to an ongoing disagreement over current state payments to pharmacists. If this causes a delay in the rollout due for next year, it would be a great shame. Nevertheless, this initiative is a small yet significant move towards achieving a primary care system capable of adapting to the needs of an expanding and ageing population with greater ease and versatility.