Close to 1,500 people have received more convenient and easy-to-access care for common skin conditions as part of the NSW Pharmacy Dermatology Trial, the NSW Government has revealed.
The trial, which has been running for six months, allows appropriately trained pharmacists to manage common minor skin conditions.
These conditions include impetigo (school sores), shingles, mild to moderate eczema and acute mild plaque psoriasis.
More than 480 pharmacies across the state are currently participating in the trial.
“Imagine, instead of struggling to find a GP appointment to receive a script for a minor skin condition, you could just pop down to your local pharmacy, and receive the care you need, when you need it,” said Minister for Health, Ryan Park.
“We’re providing thousands of people with the option of conveniently obtaining a prescription this way, relieving pressure on our GPs and saving GP appointments for people who need them the most.
“I am so pleased more than 1,400 people across NSW have been able to access more convenient, timely support for common mild skin conditions thanks to this trial.”
Mr Park said the skin conditions phase of the trial builds on trials which have enabled authorised pharmacists to undertake consultations for urinary tract infections (UTI) and the resupply of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP).
Since June 2024, authorised pharmacists have been able to offer the UTI service as part of usual business, and the resupply of OCP since September. This initiative has allowed thousands of people with the option of conveniently obtaining a prescription through their local pharmacist, relieving pressure on general practitioners (GP) and freeing up GP appointments.
Senior Vice of President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch, Catherine Bronger said the Guild was proud to be a part of the trial.
“Community pharmacists in NSW have provided immediate care for nearly 1,500 patients with minor skin conditions through the NSW Pharmacy Dermatology Trial,” said Ms Bronger.
“With over 480 participating pharmacies, the initiative offers convenient prescription access, easing the burden on GPs and reserving their appointments for more critical cases.
“This approach benefits both the community and its residents by making treatment more accessible and efficient. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is proud and honoured to be part of this critical initiative, supporting and evolving the NSW healthcare landscape,” she said.