Two public health emergency orders came into effect on 26 March and can be found here.
- Pharmacists can supply prescription medications without a prescription for one month in emergency circumstances except for Schedule 8 medicines.
- Doctors prescribing Schedule 8 medicines for non-drug dependent patients will not be required to apply for a Schedule 8 treatment permit for the next six months, but instead, check SafeScript.
- Practitioners will need to apply for Schedule 8 treatment permits for drug dependent patients, including opioid replacement therapy.
During the pandemic, health practitioners should take all reasonable steps to access SafeScript, as it is very effective in providing up-to-date information about a patient’s prescribing and dispensing history.
With the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by NWMPHN. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.