NSW pharmacists will now be able to prescribe the contraceptive pill

Pharmacists in NSW will be able to prescribe the contraceptive pill directly to women without an appointment with a GP, thanks to a change announced by the state government today.

Prime Minister Chris Minns said the reform was aimed at “giving women more control, more convenience and more choice”.

The move follows a trial in which women could get a refill of the contraceptive pill at participating pharmacies without a doctor’s appointment.

To date, 773 pharmacies are registered with Healthdirect to offer this restocking service in NSW.

“It’s about removing barriers to care,” Minns said.

“And at a time when the cost of living is paramount, this is a simple change that will save time, money and make life a little easier.”

However, the service, which is available to women over 18, will not be free in the long term.

The NSW Government has allocated $4.5 million to pay for the first 5000 consultations with a trained pharmacist, after which women can expect to pay between $20 and $60 for the consultation.

Pharmacists trained with a degree from James Cook University will be able to prescribe contraception to women at lower risk of complications, and after taking part in a NSW reproductive health induction course.

The government expects that up to 60 pharmacists will be eligible to start, with more pharmacists coming online as they graduate.

“Access to contraception should not be a burden for women, and the NSW Government is providing new solutions to make life easier, more affordable and safer for women,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr. Kerry Chant said: “This investment is about addressing the gaps in women’s access to contraceptive options in the healthcare system, especially for women where cost, availability of services and location limit access to care.”

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