NSW Health has sponsored a research trial to determine if it is safe for pharmacists to help manage common skin conditions, without a script from a doctor.
From 19 July 2024, participating pharmacists may be able to help eligible people manage common skin conditions including:
The trial will close in February 2025 or when the maximum number of trial-supported consultations has been reached.
This page answers frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the NSW Pharmacy Trial.
You may be referred to your doctor for further advice if you:
The pharmacist will ask questions to:
The pharmacist may ask you:
The pharmacist will also ask you to fill out an online form to say that you consent to participating in the trial.
Yes, your pharmacist will notify your nominated doctor directly or they will give you a letter to take to them next time you visit, with your consent.
The information you provide will be kept securely by your pharmacist and the research team.
You will receive a follow-up call or emailed survey from researchers after your consultation with the pharmacist.
In any publication, report or presentation about the trial, information will be presented so participants cannot be identified. A copy of the summary of the results from this research may be provided to participants.
Data will be kept securely for a minimum period of 15 years from the completion of the research project. Information will be managed and stored in accordance with the University of Newcastle’s Research Data and Materials Management Guideline or any successor Guideline as well as any other applicable University of Newcastle policy provisions.
Pharmacists who are participating in the trial have had additional training for common skin conditions.
Participating pharmacists are provided with clinical guidance as to who they may be able to treat and who may be referred to their doctor or an Emergency Department.
These guidelines were developed by the research team in consultation with key stakeholders and are based on international best practice.
Your pharmacist will provide you with a digital participant information sheet as part of your consultation. You can use the contact details on this information sheet to report a safety concern directly to the research team.
Concerns about professional practice and care can also be made to the Health Care Complaints Commissionor the Pharmacy Council of NSW.
While we recognise pharmacist supply of certain medicines for some minor conditions could lead to earlier treatment and may assist in reducing symptoms and distress, it is important to ensure that any risks for individuals and the population will be balanced by the benefits.
Trials have been run in Australia before, however there are significant differences in primary care arrangements across Australia. Evidence from interstate programs is not directly comparable to the primary care system in NSW.
This list and map of participating pharmacies will help you find the nearest one.
The NSW Government has partnered with the ACT Government to enable some pharmacies in the ACT to participate in the skin conditions trial. Find a participating pharmacy near you.
Please note, other states have different services and eligibility requirements available through community pharmacies:
Pharmacy and pharmacist participation in the trial is voluntary. Therefore, not all pharmacists will be providing advice or treatment.
Pharmacists must complete training before they provide these services.
More pharmacies may come on board as the trial progresses. Keep checking NSW Pharmacy Trial – Participating Pharmacies over the coming months to see if your local pharmacy is participating.
