University of Newcastle’s Dr Sarah Dineen-Griffin, from HMRI’s Healthcare Transformation Research program, is the Chief Investigator and Project Lead for the NSW and ACT Governments, for three Pharmacy Trials. These trials involved training pharmacists to manage patients with symptoms of uncomplicated UTIs, resupply of oral contraceptives previously prescribed by general practitioners, and treatment for four skin conditions. 

The University of Newcastle is leading the trial in association with the University of Technology Sydney, University of New England, Charles Sturt University, The George Institute for Global Health and the Hunter Medical Research Institute, peak bodies and other professional organisations.

The uncomplicated UTI trial was a resounding success, with 18,143 women aged 18 – 65 years of age going to see a pharmacist about their condition. Approximately 7% of these patients were referred to a doctor. On June 1^st this year, the NSW and ACT Governments announced that the management of uncomplicated UTIs would be incorporated into the normal practice of appropriately trained pharmacists. 

The Oral Contraceptive trial, since it began in September 2023, more than 500 pharmacies across NSW have delivered over 2,000 consultations for women seeking continued access to oral contraceptives. The feedback from both patients and pharmacists has been positive, with many women appreciating the convenience and accessibility of receiving care directly from their local pharmacy. The NSW Government announced on 26 September 2024, an expanded patient age eligibility from 18-35 years to 18-49 years. Women aged 40-49 will now be able to access extended supply for up to three months without having to visit their doctor for a prescription, subject to meeting eligibility criteria. 

The Dermatology trial commenced on 19 July 2024, with around 200 consultations taking place for impetigo, herpes zoster, mild atopic dermatitis and acute mild plaque psoriasis. The trial will be completed in February 2025. 

Dr Dineen-Griffin says, “The expansion of pharmacy services in NSW represents a step forward in improving healthcare accessibility. The research evidence generated from the three trials will assist the NSW Government in policy decision-making.”  

Dr Dineen-Griffin emphasised that is important to be working collaboratively with general practitioners to optimise patient care and safety.  

Where can I receive medical help during the Christmas holiday season?

The Christmas season is a time of celebration and connection, but it’s also important to plan ahead for your health needs. With many GPs and allied health providers taking leave over the holidays, and reduced hours for services like pharmacies, access to medical care may be more limited than usual. For those traveling away from home, it can be especially challenging to find support in unfamiliar areas.

1. Emergency Departments – If you are seriously injured, seriously unwell or have a life-threatening medical emergency, you should visit a hospital emergency department or call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Examples of medical emergencies include sudden collapse, chest pressure or pain lasting more than 10 minutes, breathing difficulty and uncontrollable bleeding.
   
2. Healthdirect – If you are feeling unwell and not sure what to do or who to see, Call healthdirect for free on 1800 022 222 or visit healthdirect to access their symptom checker. healthdirect provides free, trusted health information and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
   
3. A community pharmacist – pharmacists are highly trained professionals who do much more than dispense prescriptions and provide medication advice. They can offer general healthcare guidance and support your overall health and wellbeing.
   Check with your local pharmacist about services including:
   – Resupply of oral contraceptive pill
   – Management of urinary tract infections (UTI)
   – Treatment of mild to moderate eczema, impetigo (school sores), mild plaque psoriasis and shingle
   – Medication advice
   – Vaccination programs
   – Wound advice and care
   – Screening for some health conditions, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks