THE extension of existing accredited pharmacist Medication Review Numbers (MRNs) for up to 12 months (PD breaking news) has been welcomed across the pharmacy sector, with significant concern that the previously planned 01 Jul cessation would impact patient health.
MRNs are used by accredited pharmacists to lodge claims for complex medication reviews, including Home Medicine Reviews (HMRs) and Residential Medication Management Reviews (RMMRs) in residential aged care facilities.
The closure of the Australian Association of Consultant Pharmacists (AACP) on 31 Dec last year saw the Department of Health and Aged Care implement a transition period, whereby AACP-issued MRNs which were valid as at that date would remain valid until 30 Jun 2023 within the Pharmacy Programs Administrator (PPA) online portal for claiming.
"This will ensure currently Accredited Pharmacists can continue to utilise their exisitng AACP Accreditation to provide services," the Government said.
However with that 30 Jun deadline fast approaching, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) said it had "raised urgent concerns with the Government".
Speaking at the inaugural PSA Consultant Pharmacists Conference in Adelaide last Fri, Department of Health Assistant Secretary of Pharmacy, David Laffan, announced that current MRNs would remain valid until 30 Jun 2024 or when the new Australian Pharmacy Council standards are finalised.
PSA National President, Fei Sim, hailed the announcement, saying the continuation of medication review services by Accredited Pharmacists was a positive step amid the significant and ongoing uncertainty within the sector.
"HMRs and RMMRs are an important tool for promoting a model of patient-centred care," Dr Sim said, also noting confirmation by Laffan that the Government's commitment to pharmacists in residential aged care would provide for one pharmacist per 250 beds in a residential aged care home, who is on site at least one day per week.
MEANWHILE, the PSA is continuing to call for more flexibility in the delivery of the aged care pharmacist program, confirming that Health Minister Mark Butler's announcement about a switch to a community pharmacy-only outreach program was unexpected.
"No doubt some community pharmacies are well equipped, experienced and have the expertise to deliver tailored services to aged care facilities," Sim said.
However "PSA continues to advocate for flexibility in the delivery model," she added, urging the involvement of the profession in the implementation of the program to maximise pharmacist time within aged care facilities.
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