Budget Pharmacy Agreement

THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia has reached agreement with the Federal Government, accepting the $600 million already allocated in the Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement (6CPA) which will continue and expand existing community pharmacy programs, as well as a further $225 million over three years to the community pharmacy sector and wholesalers as a result of lower script volumes.

In return the Guild has agreed not to pursue any further funding for lower than expected prescription volumes over the remaining life of the 6CPA.  In addition, much to the delight of the Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (GBMA), the Guild has announced it will “continue to work with the government to support an increased uptake of generic and biosimilar medicines in community pharmacies, including through the use of computer software platforms to promote their use”.The Department said the measures would support the viability of pharmacies and the pharmaceutical supply chain, including in rural areas, “enabling them to continue to deliver services to patients and ensure all Australians have affordable and timely access to medicines”.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), while welcoming the 6CPA funding which seeks to “improve clinical outcomes and extend the role of the pharmacist in the delivery of primary health care”, was quick to argue there was “a significant opportunity missed in the Budget for further maximising the role of pharmacists – the most accessible health professionals in Australia – especially in terms of innovation and delivering new, evidence-based services”.  PSA national vp Michelle Lynch said, “Establishing a genuine partnership with pharmacists and PSA – as the peak national body for all pharmacists – will support the Minister in achieving the Government’s plan”.

Source: pharmacydaily.com.au, Wednesday 10 May 2017