Expansion of Tasmanian pharmacist vaccination services

Moves by the Tasmanian Government to expand the scope of pharmacist-administered services in Tasmania has been welcomed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA).

 

PSA has long championed a consistent approach in all states and territories for pharmacists to administer vaccines.

 

The announcement by Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney MP to expand the schedule of vaccines brings Tasmania in line with other states and territories.

 

Tasmanian PSA Branch President Dr Ella Van Tienen said the range of vaccinations available through pharmacist immunisers now included dTpa and state-funded MMR for 16 years and older.

 

This is in addition to providing influenza vaccine to individuals aged 10 years and over.

 

“These vaccines targeting measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus are vital in saving lives and protecting the community from the spread of these potentially life-threatening diseases,” she said.

 

“We thank the Tasmanian Government for acting to protect our community by providing access to these vaccines for Tasmanians, and in particular for vulnerable people.

 

“Less than 40 per cent of at risk people over 18 years are considered to be fully vaccinated. The availability of these vaccines through pharmacist immunisers benefits consumers due to the accessibility of community pharmacy and the convenience, it also benefits the health system through higher vaccination rates and cost savings.”

 

PSA has worked with the Tasmanian government to update its pharmacist training course to reflect the expanded scope. Trained pharmacists will start offering these additional vaccination services over the coming weeks.

 

For further information please contact PSA media on 0487 922 176