News

Victorian pharmacist program expands treatment options

By Ryan Bellingham

Jul 3, 2025

Community pharmacists will soon be able to treat a broader range of health conditions in Victoria. Photo by Holly Daniel

Among the changes that began on Tuesday, July 1, the Victorian Community Pharmacist Pilot Program was expanded to treat more health conditions.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The expansion will be introduced statewide over the next two years, and pharmacists will need to undertake post-graduate study to assess and treat the additional conditions.

As such, most pharmacists will not be able to treat the 22 everyday health conditions that have been included under the scheme immediately.

The expansion will include treatment for asthma, nausea, wound management and Type 2 diabetes, among other everyday conditions.

An $18 million investment from the state government has made the transition a reality following positive feedback about the pilot program from Victorians across the state.

Pharmacists that are part of the program can currently treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections, shingles, mild plaque psoriasis flare-ups and offer resupply of oral contraceptives and travel health vaccinations.

In Echuca, there are four community pharmacies in the program, including Amcal Pharmacy, Direct Chemist Outlet, Chemsave Rich River and Chemist Warehouse.

For more information, visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/community-pharmacist-pilot

By Ryan Bellingham