AMA slams WA pharmacy proposals

RECOMMENDATIONS to expand the scope of pharmacists in Western Australia, to include limited prescribing rights and a broader range of immunisations have been blasted by the Australian Medical Association (AMA).

The WA Government’s review of community pharmacy ownership laws, reported that pharmacists were under-utilised in the state and their skills could be used to alleviate pressure on medical services.

“Changes could be made to improve pharmacist utilisation, which is argued as needed to enhance efficiency of the health system,” the review’s authors said.

“These changes could include services to provide additional vaccinations, health screening, chronic disease management, health promotion, and other medicines-related activities.

However, AMA WA President, Andrew Miller, warned pharmacists would “try to short-change patients”.

“They’re basically Dr Google with a shop,” he said.

“If pharmacists need to expand their business they should start looking at other avenues.

“If they want to diagnose and treat illness properly then pharmacists should go to medical school.

“We do not go down to a shop to find out what the symptoms in our body might be causing. That is not appropriate,” Miller said.

Responding to the criticism of pharmacists, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) interim President, Dr Shane Jackson (pictured), said the AMA’s stance showed a lack of knowledge of pharmacists’ skills.

“This vitriol is horrendous,” he said on Twitter.

“Pharmacists are happy to work as part of teams with team players.

“Total lack of understanding of expertise is where this criticism fails.”

Pharmacy Guild of Australia WA Branch Director, Matthew Tweedie said the proposals were about “utilising the workforce you’ve got”, rather than have pharmacists replacing doctors.

“The AMA’s view of what this is... it’s ill-informed,” he said.

“No-one is planning to be the doctor... There is a role here for general practice and pharmacy to work together. We’re happy to work with whomever to make that a reality for West Australians.”