Tasmanians who get scripts from mainland doctors will soon be able to have them filled at their local pharmacy, with new laws set to take effect early next year.
State parliament this week passed legislation allowing pharmacists to dispense medications prescribed by interstate practitioners.
It means scripts for ADHD medications, medicinal cannabis, opioids and benzodiazepines written by doctors on the mainland will soon be able to be filled in Tasmania.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said the reform was overdue.
“With the growth of telehealth, many Tasmanians now access medical care interstate, but until now, local pharmacists were restricted from dispensing certain prescriptions and these changes remove that barrier,” she said.
Interstate prescription barrier removed as Tasmania passes pharmacy reform. Image / File
“These common-sense reforms will make it easier for Tasmanians to get the medicines they need, no matter where their doctor is based.”
The bill passed the Legislative Council with unanimous support.
Interstate visitors with valid prescriptions will also be able to have them dispensed locally.
Tasmanian Pharmacy Guild branch president Joe O’Malley said the changes would improve access for patients.
“More and more we’re seeing Tasmanian patients accessing care remotely via the mainland,” he said.
Interstate prescription barrier removed as Tasmania passes pharmacy reform. Image / Stock
“So when it’s easier for them to get scripts filled that means better health outcomes for our community.”
The Greens amended the bill to extend driving protections for people using prescribed medicinal cannabis obtained and dispensed interstate.
Bass MP Cecily Rosol said the amendment closed a “loophole” that would have left some patients exposed.
“The Greens’ amendments are particularly important for Tasmanians who are prescribed and access medicinal cannabis on the mainland,” she said.
“They will now no longer be punished for driving after having used this medication.”
Interstate prescribers will still need approval from the Department of Health before prescribing Schedule 8 medicines.
Voluntary assisted dying drugs, opioid pharmacotherapy and clinical trial medicines are excluded from the changes.
The reforms are expected to come into effect in early 2026.