Pharmacies will soon begin charging customers for some services that have previously been offered for free—such as blood pressure checks, delivery of medication, and wound care.

This is the latest development in the wake of the introduction of the federal government’s 60-day dispensing policy, which will see patients obtain a 60-day supply of their prescriptions for the same price as a 30-day script from September 1st.

The 2023 CommBank Pharmacy Insights report reveals that due to the impact of the new delivery scheme, around four out of five pharmacies are planning to introduce charges for certain services.

The report also indicated that about 90 per cent of pharmacies anticipate a significant decrease of up to one-third in their revenue.

This worrisome trend is further highlighted by the Community Pharmacy Barometer Index, which shows a sharp decline in confidence within the pharmacy sector.

Pharmacies will soon begin to charge Aussies for previously free medical services, including blood pressure checks and medication deliveries. Credit: Unsplash.

Previously reaching its highest point in a decade, the index has dropped drastically. This decline occurred shortly after the government implemented its new policy.

Community pharmacies are concerned about the impact of the dispensing scheme, as 72 per cent of them anticipate a huge reduction in profits. According to a government report, pharmacies nationwide are projected to experience an annual loss of nearly $160,000 each due to the program.

Albert Naffah, Chief of CommBank Health, pointed out that this situation is compelling pharmacies to reevaluate the financial sustainability of their businesses. Many pharmacies are being forced to reconsider the financial viability of their business.

‘Many are considering whether keeping their workforce and opening hours intact is financially viable, while others are still grappling with shortages,' he said.

Quinn On, a pharmacy owner from Southwest Sydney, gave some insight into how pharmacies are potentially preparing to tackle the financial losses caused by the dispensing scheme.

'Many pharmacies do free deliveries of medication for their regulars and elderly patients, and that won’t happen anymore after 60-day dispensing. We are having lots of meetings about how we can mitigate the impact of 60-day dispensing. We’re doing everything we can.’

Mr On has made changes to the services offered at the pharmacy. Previously, wound dressing was provided for free, but now it will come with a cost. Additionally, there will be a charge of $10 to $15 for blood pressure checks.

CommBank Pharmacy Insights also mentions that businesses in the pharmacy sector are motivated to provide additional services for patient care to increase their revenue.

The expected decline in profits has prompted various strategic responses from pharmacies. One significant growth opportunity identified was expanding professional services. Many pharmacies are also considering assessing their labour costs, which has led to discussions about potential staff reductions.

In this regard, the report says that 62 per cent of pharmacies are contemplating a decrease in the number of assistants, while 43.5 per cent are considering a similar reduction in employed pharmacists. Additionally, 48.1 per cent of pharmacies are exploring the possibility of reducing their opening hours.

Key Takeaways

• Pharmacies and chemists across Australia will begin to charge for previously free medical services in response to Labor's new prescription dispensing policy.
• The policy, which starts on 1 September, will allow patients to receive 60 days' worth of prescriptions for the cost of their current 30-day scripts, which could lead to decreased profits for pharmacies.
• Following the policy introduction, confidence in the pharmacy sector has dipped to its lowest in a decade, according to the UTS Community Pharmacy Barometer Index.
• To counter this impact, pharmacies consider assessing their labour costs, leading to discussions about potential staff reductions.

For many of us, the news of these changes comes as a shock. We are used to being able to pop down to our local pharmacy and get various free services when we need them, so hearing that this may no longer be an option is jarring.

In the meantime, staying updated on government announcements or alterations in medical fees or services is crucial. If you're worried about medication expenses or other concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your local pharmacist. They'll be more than willing to assist you.

Rest assured, we at the SDC are committed to keeping you well-informed about these changes and other significant developments. So stay tuned for updates!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Share them with us in the comments below.

 

[Observer]

Sure, start charging everyone. May as well be like all other businesses and put the prices up.

 

[lonelyasacloud]

Buy your own sphygmomanometer and check your blood pressure at home. It’s far more accurate. Cheap in Kmart or Aldi.

 

[Leenie]

Buy your own sphygmomanometer and check your blood pressure at home. It’s far more accurate. Cheap in Kmart or hj

 

[Shane/#]

Pharmacies will soon begin charging customers for some services that have previously been offered for free—such as blood pressure checks, delivery of medication, and wound care.

This is the latest development in the wake of the introduction of the federal government’s 60-day dispensing policy, which will see patients obtain a 60-day supply of their prescriptions for the same price as a 30-day script from September 1st.

The 2023 CommBank Pharmacy Insights report reveals that due to the impact of the new delivery scheme, around four out of five pharmacies are planning to introduce charges for certain services.

The report also indicated that about 90 per cent of pharmacies anticipate a significant decrease of up to one-third in their revenue.

This worrisome trend is further highlighted by the Community Pharmacy Barometer Index, which shows a sharp decline in confidence within the pharmacy sector.

View attachment 27747

Pharmacies will soon begin to charge Aussies for previously free medical services, including blood pressure checks and medication deliveries. Credit: Unsplash.

Previously reaching its highest point in a decade, the index has dropped drastically. This decline occurred shortly after the government implemented its new policy.

Community pharmacies are concerned about the impact of the dispensing scheme, as 72 per cent of them anticipate a huge reduction in profits. According to a government report, pharmacies nationwide are projected to experience an annual loss of nearly $160,000 each due to the program.

Albert Naffah, Chief of CommBank Health, pointed out that this situation is compelling pharmacies to reevaluate the financial sustainability of their businesses. Many pharmacies are being forced to reconsider the financial viability of their business.

‘Many are considering whether keeping their workforce and opening hours intact is financially viable, while others are still grappling with shortages,' he said.

Quinn On, a pharmacy owner from Southwest Sydney, gave some insight into how pharmacies are potentially preparing to tackle the financial losses caused by the dispensing scheme.

'Many pharmacies do free deliveries of medication for their regulars and elderly patients, and that won’t happen anymore after 60-day dispensing. We are having lots of meetings about how we can mitigate the impact of 60-day dispensing. We’re doing everything we can.’

Mr On has made changes to the services offered at the pharmacy. Previously, wound dressing was provided for free, but now it will come with a cost. Additionally, there will be a charge of $10 to $15 for blood pressure checks.

CommBank Pharmacy Insights also mentions that businesses in the pharmacy sector are motivated to provide additional services for patient care to increase their revenue.

The expected decline in profits has prompted various strategic responses from pharmacies. One significant growth opportunity identified was expanding professional services. Many pharmacies are also considering assessing their labour costs, which has led to discussions about potential staff reductions.

In this regard, the report says that 62 per cent of pharmacies are contemplating a decrease in the number of assistants, while 43.5 per cent are considering a similar reduction in employed pharmacists. Additionally, 48.1 per cent of pharmacies are exploring the possibility of reducing their opening hours.

Key Takeaways

• Pharmacies and chemists across Australia will begin to charge for previously free medical services in response to Labor's new prescription dispensing policy.
• The policy, which starts on 1 September, will allow patients to receive 60 days' worth of prescriptions for the cost of their current 30-day scripts, which could lead to decreased profits for pharmacies.
• Following the policy introduction, confidence in the pharmacy sector has dipped to its lowest in a decade, according to the UTS Community Pharmacy Barometer Index.
• To counter this impact, pharmacies consider assessing their labour costs, leading to discussions about potential staff reductions.

For many of us, the news of these changes comes as a shock. We are used to being able to pop down to our local pharmacy and get various free services when we need them, so hearing that this may no longer be an option is jarring.

In the meantime, staying updated on government announcements or alterations in medical fees or services is crucial. If you're worried about medication expenses or other concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your local pharmacist. They'll be more than willing to assist you.

Rest assured, we at the SDC are committed to keeping you well-informed about these changes and other significant developments. So stay tuned for updates!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Share them with us in the comments below.

Pharmacist's wolf in sheep's clothing money over venerable customers bloody parasites double scripts means I see my doctor less for my medication prescriptions at $80 a visit I'm happy because I'm saving that money which can go to a bill or food Pharmacist are going to become scumbag thieves

 

[Leenie]

Another excuse to hit the consumer, staff aren’t that busy at the chemist and a service customers appreciate. I d o mine and it only a couple of minutes. The machines aren’t that costly.

 

[Fair go mate]

Surely Pharmacies getting together and increasing costs is price collusion. Isn't that against the law.

 

[Rob44]

Australia is a loser-pays society and has been since privatisation of publicly owned services began . We need a complete re-appraisal of our Public Health Services. Nothing new there; Lord Beveridge wrote the report in1942 and in 1947 the British Labour Government brought in the National Health Service paid for by a national insurance scheme through regular contributions from workers and business owners. Thatcher and her apparatchicks and followers worked hard to dismantle that sort of thing from 1979 onwards, and Australians prefer our politicians to walk in her footsteps, to judge by the last 30 years of election results

 

[mylittletibbies]

Buy your own sphygmomanometer and check your blood pressure at home. It’s far more accurate. Cheap in Kmart or Aldi.

Yes, I have my own blood pressure monitor, although I don't regularly use it as it is usually done at the Drs when I go for scripts, etc.
My pharmacist lives in a very flash house, drives an equally expensive car, so maybe they won't be able to live so high on the hog
Welcome to the real world.
This will benefit many struggling people, and as my husband and I usually reach the safety net after about 6 months a year and then get our meds for free I don't see how this is any different.
I realise this is not the case with everyone, but still it is for the benefit of the majority.
If you have bad wounds you can get them treated at the hospital or Silver Chain. I have never used any of these free services at the chemist and I don't personally know anyone who does. I would be happy to pick up scripts for anyone in our town who needed it and I am sure most people would have somebody who could do this for them.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Simple buy your own blood monitor. We have.
If you suffer blood pressure problems probably a good idea anyway.

I'm surprised they haven't already been charging , maybe they were looking at an opportunity and it has now come

 

[Veggiepatch]

Easily solved.
Buy an Omron blood pressure machine for $100 to $150.
If you can't afford that, try the free SISU health monitoring stations at your local Priceline Pharmacy.

 

[Bridgit]

Another excuse to hit the consumer, staff aren’t that busy at the chemist and a service customers appreciate. I d o mine and it only a couple of minutes. The machines aren’t that costly.

Yes I have to do mine 3 times a day - but hang on the Fed Gov is going to make up the shortfall to the pharmacies didn't they say? I don't think our chemist will charge for delivery as they deliver to our hospital 2 days per week and us as we are rural and over 70. My husband gets 3 bottles of one drug each time and 2 of another already as he takes so many of them every day. One drug cost over $280 for a bottle of 200 off concession.

 

[Veggiepatch]

@Bridgit blood pressure machines should be subsidised for those with chronic conditions like heart and stroke issues.

Same as blood sugar machines for diabetics.

 

[Judy HB]

Looks like we’ll be waiting longer at the pharmacy for prescriptions if they have to put staff off!

 

[margaretritchie48@hotmail]

Buy your own sphygmomanometer and check your blood pressure at home. It’s far more accurate. Cheap in Kmart or Aldi.

I GOT ONE FOR MY MUM. HER HEALTH FUND PAID FOR IT.

 

[Martin D]

Pharmacies will soon begin charging customers for some services that have previously been offered for free—such as blood pressure checks, delivery of medication, and wound care.

This is the latest development in the wake of the introduction of the federal government’s 60-day dispensing policy, which will see patients obtain a 60-day supply of their prescriptions for the same price as a 30-day script from September 1st.

The 2023 CommBank Pharmacy Insights report reveals that due to the impact of the new delivery scheme, around four out of five pharmacies are planning to introduce charges for certain services.

The report also indicated that about 90 per cent of pharmacies anticipate a significant decrease of up to one-third in their revenue.

This worrisome trend is further highlighted by the Community Pharmacy Barometer Index, which shows a sharp decline in confidence within the pharmacy sector.

View attachment 27747

Pharmacies will soon begin to charge Aussies for previously free medical services, including blood pressure checks and medication deliveries. Credit: Unsplash.

Previously reaching its highest point in a decade, the index has dropped drastically. This decline occurred shortly after the government implemented its new policy.

Community pharmacies are concerned about the impact of the dispensing scheme, as 72 per cent of them anticipate a huge reduction in profits. According to a government report, pharmacies nationwide are projected to experience an annual loss of nearly $160,000 each due to the program.

Albert Naffah, Chief of CommBank Health, pointed out that this situation is compelling pharmacies to reevaluate the financial sustainability of their businesses. Many pharmacies are being forced to reconsider the financial viability of their business.

‘Many are considering whether keeping their workforce and opening hours intact is financially viable, while others are still grappling with shortages,' he said.

Quinn On, a pharmacy owner from Southwest Sydney, gave some insight into how pharmacies are potentially preparing to tackle the financial losses caused by the dispensing scheme.

'Many pharmacies do free deliveries of medication for their regulars and elderly patients, and that won’t happen anymore after 60-day dispensing. We are having lots of meetings about how we can mitigate the impact of 60-day dispensing. We’re doing everything we can.’

Mr On has made changes to the services offered at the pharmacy. Previously, wound dressing was provided for free, but now it will come with a cost. Additionally, there will be a charge of $10 to $15 for blood pressure checks.

CommBank Pharmacy Insights also mentions that businesses in the pharmacy sector are motivated to provide additional services for patient care to increase their revenue.

The expected decline in profits has prompted various strategic responses from pharmacies. One significant growth opportunity identified was expanding professional services. Many pharmacies are also considering assessing their labour costs, which has led to discussions about potential staff reductions.

In this regard, the report says that 62 per cent of pharmacies are contemplating a decrease in the number of assistants, while 43.5 per cent are considering a similar reduction in employed pharmacists. Additionally, 48.1 per cent of pharmacies are exploring the possibility of reducing their opening hours.

Key Takeaways

• Pharmacies and chemists across Australia will begin to charge for previously free medical services in response to Labor's new prescription dispensing policy.
• The policy, which starts on 1 September, will allow patients to receive 60 days' worth of prescriptions for the cost of their current 30-day scripts, which could lead to decreased profits for pharmacies.
• Following the policy introduction, confidence in the pharmacy sector has dipped to its lowest in a decade, according to the UTS Community Pharmacy Barometer Index.
• To counter this impact, pharmacies consider assessing their labour costs, leading to discussions about potential staff reductions.

For many of us, the news of these changes comes as a shock. We are used to being able to pop down to our local pharmacy and get various free services when we need them, so hearing that this may no longer be an option is jarring.

In the meantime, staying updated on government announcements or alterations in medical fees or services is crucial. If you're worried about medication expenses or other concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your local pharmacist. They'll be more than willing to assist you.

Rest assured, we at the SDC are committed to keeping you well-informed about these changes and other significant developments. So stay tuned for updates!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Share them with us in the comments below.

I think it's pretty unfair for Pharmacies, and I think there should be an option to get two month supply of medications, and pay for 2 months.
If you cannot afford it, then use the new offer of getting 2 months supply for the cost of one month, but if you can afford it,I think the option should be there to pay for the 2 months.

 

[Jest]

Pharmacies will soon begin charging customers for some services that have previously been offered for free—such as blood pressure checks, delivery of medication, and wound care.

This is the latest development in the wake of the introduction of the federal government’s 60-day dispensing policy, which will see patients obtain a 60-day supply of their prescriptions for the same price as a 30-day script from September 1st.

The 2023 CommBank Pharmacy Insights report reveals that due to the impact of the new delivery scheme, around four out of five pharmacies are planning to introduce charges for certain services.

The report also indicated that about 90 per cent of pharmacies anticipate a significant decrease of up to one-third in their revenue.

This worrisome trend is further highlighted by the Community Pharmacy Barometer Index, which shows a sharp decline in confidence within the pharmacy sector.

View attachment 27747

Pharmacies will soon begin to charge Aussies for previously free medical services, including blood pressure checks and medication deliveries. Credit: Unsplash.

Previously reaching its highest point in a decade, the index has dropped drastically. This decline occurred shortly after the government implemented its new policy.

Community pharmacies are concerned about the impact of the dispensing scheme, as 72 per cent of them anticipate a huge reduction in profits. According to a government report, pharmacies nationwide are projected to experience an annual loss of nearly $160,000 each due to the program.

Albert Naffah, Chief of CommBank Health, pointed out that this situation is compelling pharmacies to reevaluate the financial sustainability of their businesses. Many pharmacies are being forced to reconsider the financial viability of their business.

‘Many are considering whether keeping their workforce and opening hours intact is financially viable, while others are still grappling with shortages,' he said.

Quinn On, a pharmacy owner from Southwest Sydney, gave some insight into how pharmacies are potentially preparing to tackle the financial losses caused by the dispensing scheme.

'Many pharmacies do free deliveries of medication for their regulars and elderly patients, and that won’t happen anymore after 60-day dispensing. We are having lots of meetings about how we can mitigate the impact of 60-day dispensing. We’re doing everything we can.’

Mr On has made changes to the services offered at the pharmacy. Previously, wound dressing was provided for free, but now it will come with a cost. Additionally, there will be a charge of $10 to $15 for blood pressure checks.

CommBank Pharmacy Insights also mentions that businesses in the pharmacy sector are motivated to provide additional services for patient care to increase their revenue.

The expected decline in profits has prompted various strategic responses from pharmacies. One significant growth opportunity identified was expanding professional services. Many pharmacies are also considering assessing their labour costs, which has led to discussions about potential staff reductions.

In this regard, the report says that 62 per cent of pharmacies are contemplating a decrease in the number of assistants, while 43.5 per cent are considering a similar reduction in employed pharmacists. Additionally, 48.1 per cent of pharmacies are exploring the possibility of reducing their opening hours.

Key Takeaways

• Pharmacies and chemists across Australia will begin to charge for previously free medical services in response to Labor's new prescription dispensing policy.
• The policy, which starts on 1 September, will allow patients to receive 60 days' worth of prescriptions for the cost of their current 30-day scripts, which could lead to decreased profits for pharmacies.
• Following the policy introduction, confidence in the pharmacy sector has dipped to its lowest in a decade, according to the UTS Community Pharmacy Barometer Index.
• To counter this impact, pharmacies consider assessing their labour costs, leading to discussions about potential staff reductions.

For many of us, the news of these changes comes as a shock. We are used to being able to pop down to our local pharmacy and get various free services when we need them, so hearing that this may no longer be an option is jarring.

In the meantime, staying updated on government announcements or alterations in medical fees or services is crucial. If you're worried about medication expenses or other concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your local pharmacist. They'll be more than willing to assist you.

Rest assured, we at the SDC are committed to keeping you well-informed about these changes and other significant developments. So stay tuned for updates!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Share them with us in the comments below.

What is wrong with people. Buy your own Machine. OH!dear will have to spend money!!!!!!. Available under $50.00 look around.

 

[Jest]

Buy your own sphygmomanometer and check your blood pressure at home. It’s far more accurate. Cheap in Kmart or Aldi.

well said

 

[Jest]

Yes, I have my own blood pressure monitor, although I don't regularly use it as it is usually done at the Drs when I go for scripts, etc.
My pharmacist lives in a very flash house, drives an equally expensive car, so maybe they won't be able to live so high on the hog
Welcome to the real world.
This will benefit many struggling people, and as my husband and I usually reach the safety net after about 6 months a year and then get our meds for free I don't see how this is any different.
I realise this is not the case with everyone, but still it is for the benefit of the majority.
If you have bad wounds you can get them treated at the hospital or Silver Chain. I have never used any of these free services at the chemist and I don't personally know anyone who does. I would be happy to pick up scripts for anyone in our town who needed it and I am sure most people would have somebody who could do this for them.

do you think he doesn't deserve these treats. Years of learning, is in a very responsible and caring position has a huge outlay for the publics use and you go on about what he has.

 

[Leenie]

Easily solved.
Buy an Omron blood pressure machine for $100 to $150.
If you can't afford that, try the free SISU health monitoring stations at your local Priceline Pharmacy.

I bought mine and keep a diary so my cardiologist can keep up with any changes.