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The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has welcome yesterday’s Tasmanian Budget and its $150 million investment in digital health infrastructure. Tasmanian Premier and Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff has announced upgrades that would allow hospitals, general practitioners, community health, allied health and specialist providers access shared electronic medical records for patients. PSA Tasmania Branch President David Peachey says the digitisation of health system records will allow pharmacists and other healthcare providers achieve better outcomes for patients. “Tasmanian pharmacists are keen to see systems that can centralise patient data across different methods of care and also with my Heath record, which will improve the care we can provide our communities” Mr Peachy said. “This is also a win for medicine safety, as patient’s histories can travel with them. We can then ensure that therapy continues or is not duplicated. “This is particularly important for the patients moving between methods of care who are at most risk of medicine related harm.” However Mr Peachey says that the 2022-23 Budget overlooks some of the key issues facing Tasmanian pharmacists, including issues highlighted in PSA’s Budget Submission. “PSA is keen to see action on the Tasmanian Liberals’ 2021 election commitment to review pharmacists’ scope of practice, which still has not been funded in this budget. “We also want to see after-hours pharmacist services expanded so that more Tasmanians can better access the medical advice and expertise of pharmacists, which could also reduce emergency department presentations for non-critical care. “PSA is committed to working with the Tasmanian Government to support the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians, as well as continuing to advocate for optimal patient care and access to life-saving medications.” Mr Peachey concluded. Media