AMA (NSW) statement on NSW pharmacist-led UTI trial evaluation

STATEMENT FROM AMA (NSW) PRESIDENT DR FRED BETROS

We welcome the release of the evaluation of the NSW Government-sponsored pharmacist-led UTI trial. NSW deserves credit for properly evaluating pharmacist prescribing before expanding it further.

But let’s be clear: this evaluation is not a green light for broader pharmacist prescribing.

Giving pharmacists more prescribing power is a major intervention in the health system.

It risks fragmenting care, weakening general practice and increasing pressure on antimicrobial stewardship at the worst possible time.

The trial involved 17,313 participants and 18,143 episodes of care.

More than nine in 10 episodes resulted in an antibiotic being supplied, while only 7.3 per cent were referred to a GP or emergency department.

Australia already has the highest total volume of antibiotics prescribed for systemic use among OECD countries, at 27.6 defined daily doses per 1,000 people per day.

The last thing we need is a model that makes antibiotics easier to hand out without proper medical oversight.

UTI symptoms are common, but they are not always simple. They can overlap with sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy-related issues, kidney infections and other conditions that require proper medical assessment.

A GP does more than issue a script. They know the patient, their history and their medications. That continuity of care is central to safe medicine.

Pharmacists are valued members of the healthcare team, but patients do not need fast food medicine.

They need the right care, in the right place, with proper diagnosis, follow-up and continuity. The next step must be guided by patient safety, antimicrobial stewardship and the long-term health of the community.

The report can be read here: https://www.newcastle.edu.au/school/biomedical-sciences-and-pharmacy/research/centres-and-groups/nsw-community-pharmacy-trials/final-evaluation