Pharmacists in Australia are playing an increasingly important role in providing such care to patients, which is easing the pressure on the broader health system.
Diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood.
Diabetes Australia says there are three main types of diabetes and that all types are complex and serious, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Access to care
As people in Australia continue to struggle to access a GP, with one in four people* saying the wait is unacceptable, the PGA is arguing it’s time to ensure a nationally consistent framework for pharmacy prescribing.
“Diabetes is one of Australia’s most significant and growing health challenges,” PGA National President Professor Twomey said.
“Early detection and proper management are critical to preventing serious complications.”
In-pharmacy testing, including blood glucose checks and risk assessments, allows community pharmacists to help identify people at risk of diabetes earlier.
The detection can come often before symptoms worsen, enabling faster intervention and better long-term outcomes.
In every pharmacy, highly trained pharmacists support patients living with diabetes through medication management, adherence support, lifestyle advice and regular monitoring, ensuring patients stay on track and avoid preventable complications.
Scope of practice
“In Queensland and the Northern Territory, pharmacists are showing what’s possible when they are empowered to do more,” Prof Twomey said.
“Patients are getting care sooner, closer to home, in a way the complements the broader heath system.”
Specially trained community pharmacists undertake structured assessment, ongoing monitoring and collaborative care with other health professionals.
These models are improving access to care, particularly in underserved communities, and delivering real benefits for patients.
“We know too many people are struggling to see a GP,” Prof Twomey said.
A nationally consistent pharmacist prescribing framework will mean everyone in Australia regardless of where they live, will be able to access the same high quality pharmacy care.
Primary healthcare providers
There are more than 6,000 community pharmacies in Australia, and in more than 330 towns a community pharmacy is the only primary healthcare provider.
Pharmacists can provide screening, education and ongoing support for chronic conditions like diabetes.
Community pharmacies are open earlier, later and longer than many other health services, which makes them an ideal destination for safe, effective and accessible healthcare.
People in Australia are encouraged to visit their local community pharmacy or go to https://www.findapharmacy.com.au to access diabetes screening, advice and support.
*ABS https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-services/patient-experiences/latest-release
