Tasmanians can now fill prescriptions from interstate doctors at local pharmacies under new laws that took effect today.
The changes allow Tasmanian pharmacists to dispense most medications prescribed by doctors in other states, including ADHD treatments, opioids, medicinal cannabis and anxiety medications.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the reform removes barriers for Tasmanians seeking medical care outside the state.
“Tasmanians who access medical care interstate and are prescribed certain medications can now have them dispensed in Tasmania, regardless of where their doctor is based,” he said.
Tasmanian pharmacists can now dispense medications prescribed by interstate doctors. Image / Pulse (File)
The Poisons Amendment (Interstate Prescriptions) Act 2025 also benefits visitors to Tasmania who can now fill valid prescriptions at local pharmacies.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said the legislation is an important step forward in healthcare access.
Health Minister Bridget Archer says the reforms improve healthcare access. Image / Pulse (File)
“We’re removing unnecessary barriers and ensuring Tasmanians can access the medicines they have been prescribed,” Archer said.
“This reform will also benefit visitors to Tasmania. Travellers who bring valid prescriptions to the state can now have them dispensed by local pharmacists.”
Tasmanian Branch President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Joe O’Malley welcomed the reforms.
“This is going to make life easier for Tasmanian patients,” O’Malley said.
The Poisons Amendment Act 2025 removes barriers for Tasmanian patients
“With these changes now in place, patients who access care interstate will no longer need to jump through more hoops just to access medications they’ve been prescribed.”
The Department of Health website now provides detailed information about the changes for patients, prescribers and pharmacists.