Local residents in Penrith have received 145 consultations for everyday medications from 
community pharmacists, under the NSW Government’s pharmacy prescription trial.

The trial allows pharmacists to provide medications for uncomplicated UTIs and low-risk oral 
contraceptive pills.

Allowing pharmacists to dispense these everyday medications takes pressure off of GPs. 

It’s part of the NSW Government’s response to improve access to GPs for those who need them 
the most.

The initiative is also helping to address cost of living pressures by reducing the medical expenses 
patients face when seeking everyday medications.

Between 1 July 2023 and 18 January 2024, 131 local residents in Penrith received consultations 
for uncomplicated UTIs.

14 received consultations for the resupply of the oral contraceptive pill.

NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“Over the course of this trial so far, we have seen over 8,000 people across New South Wales 
access everyday medications that they would have otherwise had to go to a GP for. This is part 
of our broader effort to relieve the pressure on our GPs, which includes the rollout of 25 urgent 
care clinics across the state.”

Member for Penrith, Ms Karen McKeown OAM said:

“We know that it is becoming more difficult to access a GP, let alone one that bulk bills. 
“By enabling pharmacists to dispense these medicines, we are clearing the way for those who 
need to access GPs the most.”

“The NSW Labor Government is also aware of the current cost of living challenges and this 
initiative also reduces some of the costs patients face when seeking everyday medications while 
still providing quality healthcare at the right time and in the right place.”