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The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) welcomes the announcement that registered nurses will be able to qualify to prescribe medications through planned new training programs from today.
'The APC supports the safe expansion of scope for all health professionals,' stated APC CEO Bronwyn Clark.
'Safely advancing workforce capability increases accessibility for consumers and reduces demand on higher-level and emergency healthcare services by providing timely care in local settings.
In line with the proposed National Endorsement for scheduled medicines for pharmacists, the APC emphasises that patient safety must remain paramount as prescribing rights are extended.
'Accreditation bodies like the APC are critical in ensuring safety,' expressed Ms Clark.
'As the healthcare system evolves, it is essential that all prescribers - regardless of profession - are supported by robust governance, national consistency, and a shared commitment to safe, person-centred care.
'The public can be assured that pharmacist prescriber programs are underpinned by robust accreditation standards, processes, and extensive consultation.
'Our ongoing work to support national endorsement ensure pharmacists who prescribe certain medicines have consistent, nationally recognised qualifications, while still following the rules set by each state and territory,' Ms Clark concluded.
The APC looks forward to continuing its collaboration with regulators, educators, and professional bodies to support safe and effective prescribing across Australia’s health workforce.