Summary
Date: 27 May 2021
The Therapeutic Goods Administration released public consultation on two proposals to down-schedule a list of substances from Schedule 4 to Schedule 3 with Appendix M listings. The result of the proposals would allow pharmacists to dispense the oral contraceptive pill to consumers without the need for a prescription from a GP.
The RACGP submission did not support this proposal. The rationale provided was that GPs are already very accessible, and with telehealth and e-prescribing it is easier than ever to get a new prescription from a GP. Risks to patient safety and quality of care were outlined.