James O'Connor
Question:9. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Health if his Department has plans to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18205/23]
View answerThursday, 20 April 2023
Questions (9)
Written answers
The Department of Health recognizes the key role of Pharmacy in the Community, and the ongoing significant contribution made by this sector to patients and the public, particularly during the pandemic.
My department is actively considering the potential role that pharmacy may play in the development and implementation of future healthcare reform, especially in regard to the aims and vision of Sláintecare. A number of proposals and ways to progress the potential extension of the scope of practice of community pharmacists in the short, medium and longer term are being scoped out, considered and progressed. Some examples I will outline below;
A proposal for the introduction of a Minor Ailment Scheme this year is currently being scoped. The intention is to enable eligible patients to attend their local community pharmacist for assessment and treatment for a number of identified ailments rather than initially having to attend the GP to obtain a prescription. Work is progressing and the Department has begun discussions with the HSE on the range of conditions to be included in such a Scheme. There will be a need for clinical oversight on those conditions to be included in such a Scheme, including the development of appropriate protocols
The free contraception scheme for women was launched in September 2022, and is currently open to women aged 17-26 who are ordinarily resident in Ireland, and in this context work on developing potential options for an enhanced role for pharmacists through the scheme has therefore commenced. This work is currently being scoped and many requirements are under consideration such as legal basis, training requirements and financial matters.
The Department is currently working to introduce Serious Shortage Protocols (SSP) where there is or may be, a serious shortage of a medicine or appliance in Ireland. The Department will engage with Key Stakeholders as this policy is developed.
The Emerging Risks to Pharmacy Workforce project, which will be a multi-annual project has been commenced by the PSI to assess emerging risks to the continued availability of a professional pharmacy workforce within community and hospital pharmacy in Ireland. The Department sits on the Group and has been actively involved in the work to date, a report is being finalised and due to be published in Q2 of 2023. Key policy changes in enhancing the role of the pharmacist are included in the report. The Department looks forward to working with the PSI and other key Stakeholders in implementing accepted policy recommendations.
I am fully aware of the value and importance of Pharmacy Sector in conserving and protecting the health of our citizens. I also realise the many opportunities that Pharmacy can bring to our health sector and am keen to explore and develop these.
Question No. 10 answered orally.