Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Some pharmacists will be able to treat and prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs.
Five ACT pharmacies are set to offer Canberrans a new way of accessing treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) as part of a trial.
The trial will allow pharmacists to prescribe antibiotics for simple cases in individuals aged 18–65.
Participating pharmacies include:
- Capital Chemist Charnwood
- Gold Creek Discount Drug Store
- The Pharmacy on Petrie
- Life Pharmacy Group Erindale
- PharmaSave Woden Pharmacy.
The trial aims to reduce pressure on other healthcare providers and ensure greater access to treatment
Who is eligible for UTI treatment by a participating pharmacist?
You are eligible for UTI treatment at a participating pharmacy if you are:
- female or a person with a uterus
- aged between 18 to 65 years (inclusive)
- displaying symptoms consistent with an uncomplicated UTI, which may include:
- burning or stinging (hurting) when you urinate, or a
- frequent or urgent need to urinate.
What is the difference between an uncomplicated and a complicated UTI?
A UTI is usually an uncomplicated UTI when you:
- are otherwise healthy
- are not pregnant
- have no abnormalities or obstructions in your urinary tract
- have an infection in the lower section of their urinary tract (bladder and urethra) indicated by symptoms including:
- burning or stinging (hurts) when you urinate
- frequent or urgent need to urinate.
What will the pharmacy consultation involve?
At your consultation with the pharmacist, you will be provided with an information sheet and asked some screening questions. This is to make sure you receive the right treatment and care.
You should call the pharmacy before you go to check opening hours and to ask if you need to book a consultation.
There will be a fee for both the consultation and antibiotics if required.
You may be referred to your doctor (GP) or the Emergency Department if you need additional care or urgent treatment.
You can also attend your local ACT Government Walk-in Centre for free treatment of UTIs.
Later in the year these pharmacists will also be able to resupply the contraceptive pill to eligible women.
The University of Newcastle is leading this trial in association with the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, University of New England, Charles Sturt University, The George Institute for Global Health and the Hunter Medical Research Institute.
To find out more, visit https://www.health.act.gov.au/health-professionals/pharmaceutical-services/act-pharmacy-uti-and-contraceptive-pill-trial
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