The Victorian Branches of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and Pharmacy Guild of Australia have welcomed the Victorian Government's approval of pharmacist-delivered vaccinations.
Victoria has now officially joined other states and territories in approving immunisation by pharmacists.
The new regulations in Victoria enable pharmacists to administer flu and whooping cough vaccines to adults at approved pharmacy premises, including those who qualify for the National Immunisation program and the Victorian Government Parent’s Whooping Cough Vaccination program.
“Pharmacist-delivered immunisation is a positive public health service and helps to vaccinate members of the community, including those with chronic conditions, who previously would not have been vaccinated,” said PSA Victoria Branch President Ben Marchant.
“Pharmacists also play an important role in promoting immunisation and reducing the impact of vaccine-preventable disease in the community. We sincerely thank the Victorian Government and health authorities for their support as part of achieving this important public health outcome.”
According to Pharmacy Guild of Australia Victorian Branch President Anthony Tassone, “Community pharmacies are one of the most visited and accessible primary healthcare destinations in Australia.
“It makes sense that we better utilise the community pharmacy network to help deliver quality health outcomes for Victorians.
”The PSA and the Guild look forward to working closely with the Minister and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services to implement this and other vital health initiatives through community pharmacy in the future.”
Pharmacists are required to undergo an approved training program to administer vaccinations in Victoria.
