Double dispensing is falling short of its aims, and causing tension between patients and their healthcare practitioners, leaders of CAPS claim

In this podcast, Carlene McMaugh speaks to Christine Kelly and Emil Demyane from the Community and Pharmacy Support Group (CAPS) about the organisation’s ongoing campaign against the federal government’s 60-day dispensing policy.

Among the issues covered are the lack of understanding of what medications are available under the policy (9 min: 35) and growing tensions between patients, GPs and pharmacists (11:15).

(0:57) CAPS Canberra rally.

(3:36) Unfavourable coverage of CAPS supporters at Parliament House “put the issue on the top of the news”.

(5:40) Transition to 60-day dispensing has been difficult for pharmacists.

(6:22) Government messaging is causing confusion and uncertainty for patients and health workers.

(12:15) Medication wastage is on the rise with patients who are not stable on their medication receiving 60-day scripts only to have treatment changed.

(19.12) CAPS’s Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement goals.

(21.15) Profession is united and ready to “reactivate” to ensure the viability of community pharmacy

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