The Pharmacy Guild of Australia says it is deeply regrettable women will continue to be barred from purchasing oral contraceptives without a prescription.
Guild National Councillor Natalie Willis says the decision reinforces a gender bias that does not match Australian culture and values today.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has affirmed as final its earlier interim decision not to amend the scheduling for oral contraceptives.
They will remain a Schedule Four medicine which means they cannot be sold over the counter at a community pharmacy.
“The point must be made again: Allowing pharmacies to sell the pill in certain situations would take pressure off GPs and increase its accessibility for women,” Ms Willis said.
“Pharmacists are highly trained and skilled.
“They deal with a huge range of enquiries about health and are well equipped to help deliver strong and positive health outcomes for patients.
“Indeed, pharmacists have the clinical skills to assist GPs to manage community health.”
Ms Willis said an issue of great significance to women’s health continues to be shelved.
“Unplanned pregnancies represent a significant ongoing health risk to Australian women. A wait of maybe three weeks to see a GP doesn’t help such a situation.
“This is a time to step forward. Unfortunately this step forward has not been taken,” Ms Willis said.
