The Tasmanian Liberal Government is taking action to improve access to medication for Tasmanians, with the Poisons Act 1971 to be amended to allow prescriptions issued interstate to be filled in Tasmania.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said the proposed changes would make accessing healthcare even easier for Tasmanians, particularly for people with ADHD.
“The Tasmanian Government is absolutely committed to making it easier for people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder to get the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” Minister Barnett said.
“We have heard feedback from those frustrated with the current regulations around interstate prescribing, and we are taking action to rectify it and ensure Tasmanians can access the medications they need.
“Currently, the Act restricts interstate prescriptions of certain medicines, including the psychostimulants commonly used to treat ADHD.
“These positive changes will, with appropriate safeguards, mean that Tasmanians can access medicines that have been legitimately prescribed by an appropriately qualified health professional interstate.
“Delivering better healthcare is an essential component of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future and considered, smart legislative changes are one tool we’re using to improve our health system.
“Consultation on these changes will commence shortly, with legislation expected to be considered by Parliament early in the new year.
“In the meantime, Tasmanian GPs can continue to work with interstate specialists to apply for an authority to prescribe these medicines and have them dispensed by Tasmanian community pharmacies.
“We also continue to progress our election commitment for a new GP specialist service for children with ADHD to ensure families can access a GP with a special interest sooner, with $2.5 million committed in the recent budget to progress this important service.
“The Department will also undertake a comprehensive review of the Poisons Act 1971, which will ensure we have contemporary and user-friendly legislation that continues to ensure the right balance between access and controls to high-risk prescription medicines.
“Work is already underway on this review with public consultation to take next year, to ensure all interested stakeholders have the opportunity to have their say on potential changes.”
