A Complete Guide to Australian Pharmacy Services
Discover the full range of services offered by Australian pharmacies, from prescription dispensing to vaccinations and health consultations.
Australian pharmacies are much more than places to collect prescriptions. Modern community pharmacies offer a wide range of healthcare services, making them an accessible and convenient first point of contact for many health needs. This guide explores the services available at Australian pharmacies and how you can make the most of them.
Prescription Services
The core service of any pharmacy is dispensing prescription medications. When your doctor writes you a prescription, you can have it filled at any pharmacy in Australia. Here is what you should know about prescription services:
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
The PBS subsidises the cost of many prescription medications for Medicare-eligible patients. Under the PBS, you pay a maximum co-payment amount (currently around $31.60 for general patients or $7.70 for concession card holders), with the government covering the remaining cost of the medication.
Not all medications are listed on the PBS. For non-PBS medications, you pay the full price, which can vary between pharmacies. It is always worth asking your pharmacist about alternatives if cost is a concern.
Prescription Validity and Repeats
Prescriptions in Australia are valid for 12 months from the date they are written. Many prescriptions include repeats, which allow you to get additional supplies of the medication without needing a new prescription. The number of repeats depends on the medication and your doctor's assessment of your needs.
Pharmacist Consultations
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide valuable health advice. You do not need an appointment to speak with a pharmacist, and consultations are typically free. Pharmacists can help with:
- Advice on minor ailments like colds, allergies, and skin conditions
- Medication counselling and explaining how to take your medications correctly
- Drug interaction checks
- Side effect management
- General health information and preventive care advice
Many pharmacies now have private consultation rooms where you can discuss sensitive health matters confidentially. Do not hesitate to ask if you would prefer a private conversation.
Vaccination Services
Pharmacist-administered vaccinations have become increasingly common in Australia, making it more convenient than ever to protect yourself against preventable diseases. Pharmacies commonly offer:
- Influenza (flu) vaccinations: Available from trained pharmacists, often with walk-in appointments
- COVID-19 vaccinations: Many pharmacies participate in the national vaccination program
- Travel vaccinations: Some pharmacies offer vaccinations for overseas travel
- Shingles vaccinations: Available for eligible patients
Pharmacy vaccinations are particularly convenient as you can often get vaccinated during a quick visit without needing a GP appointment. Check with your local pharmacy about which vaccinations they offer and whether appointments are required.
Medication Management Services
For people taking multiple medications, pharmacies offer several services to help manage your treatment effectively:
MedsCheck and Diabetes MedsCheck
MedsCheck is a free service for people taking five or more prescription medications for chronic conditions. A pharmacist will review all your medications, check for interactions, and ensure you understand how to take them correctly. Diabetes MedsCheck is a similar service specifically for people managing diabetes.
Dose Administration Aids
If you find it difficult to remember when to take your medications, pharmacies can prepare dose administration aids (sometimes called Webster packs or blister packs). These organise your medications by day and time, making it easier to stay on track with your treatment.
Staged Supply
For some medications, particularly those with potential for misuse, pharmacies can provide staged supply. This means you collect your medication in smaller, more frequent amounts, which can help with medication adherence and safety.
Health Screening and Monitoring
Many pharmacies offer health screening services that provide quick insights into your health without needing a doctor's appointment:
- Blood pressure monitoring: Free at most pharmacies with automated machines or pharmacist assistance
- Blood glucose testing: Important for people managing or at risk of diabetes
- Cholesterol testing: Some pharmacies offer point-of-care cholesterol tests
- Weight management consultations: Including advice on nutrition and lifestyle
Over-the-Counter Medications
Pharmacies stock a wide range of medications that do not require a prescription. These are categorised as:
- Pharmacy Only (S2): Can only be purchased from a pharmacy
- Pharmacist Only (S3): Requires consultation with a pharmacist before purchase
- General Sale: Available from pharmacies and other retailers
Even for non-prescription medications, your pharmacist can provide valuable advice on choosing the right product and using it safely.
Additional Services
Depending on the pharmacy, you may also find:
- Sleep apnoea services and CPAP equipment
- Home medical equipment hire and sales
- Wound care supplies and advice
- Smoking cessation support
- Opioid substitution therapy
- Return of unwanted medicines (RUM) for safe disposal
Find a Pharmacy Near You
With over 5,600 pharmacies across Australia, there is likely one conveniently located near you. Use our pharmacy directory to find community pharmacies in your area and discover the services available to help you maintain your health.