Canberra women will be able to access treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), thanks to an innovative trial that will take place in select ACT pharmacies until July 2024.
The trial, led by researchers from the University of Newcastle and supported by the ACT Government, aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of pharmacists prescribing antibiotics for women and individuals aged 18-65 with infections.
UTIs are a common issue among women and can usually be resolved with a short course of antibiotics.
The ACT Government has collaborated with the NSW Government to enable ACT pharmacies to participate in the 12-month trial.
Pharmacists play an important role in the healthcare system, providing essential support and advice to the community. By allowing pharmacists to initiate treatment for uncomplicated UTIs, the trial aims to provide convenient care for Canberrans while alleviating pressure on primary healthcare providers.
Five carefully selected pharmacies across the ACT are set to take part in the trial, chosen by the University of Newcastle in collaboration with ACT Health. These pharmacies were selected based on their accessibility across all geographical areas within the ACT.
The participating pharmacies are:
• Capital Chemist Charnwood
• Gold Creek Discount Drug Store
• The Pharmacy on Petrie
• Erindale Pharmacy, Erindale Shopping Centre
• PharmaSave Woden Pharmacy.
The trial requires participating ACT pharmacies to adhere to strict protocols and diagnostic criteria to ensure the safe and appropriate use of antibiotics in treating uncomplicated UTIs. This approach also ensures that patients are informed about when further medical attention may be necessary.
To ensure success of the trial there is a strong focus on the alignment between ACT and NSW Health and ongoing collaboration with various stakeholders including the University of Newcastle, pharmacy organisations and medical bodies.
The trial services will be patient-funded, with fees encompassing both the consultation and antibiotics, if needed.
For more detailed information about the program visit the pharmacy trial webpage.
In the ACT, women can also receive treatment for uncomplicated UTIs at a nurse-led walk-in centre.
