Parents could soon find it faster and cheaper to get treatment for their children, under a Government proposal to expand the role of community pharmacies across New Zealand.
Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced the changes, which are set to take effect from June if approved.
The proposal would allow participating pharmacists to assess patients and provide funded medicines for a range of common conditions, including pain and fever, dehydration, head lice, scabies and conjunctivitis. Treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections and access to emergency contraception would also be included.
Brown said the move is aimed at easing pressure on GPs and improving access to timely care.
“We know many New Zealanders are facing long wait times to see a GP, and this can be especially frustrating for parents trying to get timely care for their children,” he said.
“These changes are about making better use of community pharmacies as a convenient, additional option for the treatment of straightforward conditions.”
Currently, families often face a choice between paying full over-the-counter costs or booking a GP visit to access subsidised treatment.
Under the proposal, pharmacists would be able to offer consultations and supply funded medicines, similar to a GP visit, reducing both cost and wait times.
To support the rollout, Health New Zealand has established a $5 million annual Extended Pharmacy Services Fund to help ensure nationwide access.
Seymour said the changes would particularly benefit rural and high-needs communities.
“Often people living in rural and remote areas find it difficult to get timely GP appointments. This is a common-sense approach that will make life easier and more affordable for many families,” he said.
If approved, Pharmac will update the Pharmaceutical Schedule to enable direct provision of funded medicines through pharmacies.
The Government says the proposal builds on the existing role of pharmacists as accessible frontline healthcare providers, with the goal of delivering “the right care at the right time, close to home.”
About The Author
