In Australia, the scope of KAPS-qualified overseas pharmacists practicing as pharmacists in Australia has a wide range of responsibilities.
Scope and Practice for Overseas Pharmacists in Australia
Here are the scope and practice for overseas pharmacists in Australia.
1. Medication Supply and Dispensing:
Pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring safe and accurate medication supply and dispensing the prescribed medications to patients, providing essential counselling on proper usage and potential side effects.
2. Prescribing:
The prescribing rights for pharmacists has been a topic of interest in Australia. Pharmacists currently in Australia are authorized to engage in activities like medication continuance, therapeutic substitution, and therapeutic adaptation.
3. Review Medications:
They conduct thorough reviews of patients’ medication regimens, identifying potential interactions, adverse effects, and opportunities for optimization.
4. Disease Management:
Pharmacists contribute to disease management by collaborating with other healthcare professionals and they adjust the medication plans to individual patient needs.
6. Ordering and Interpreting Laboratory Tests:
In some cases, pharmacists are involved in ordering and interpreting laboratory tests related to medication management.
General practice pharmacists work closely with general practitioners (GPs) to optimize patient care, with a primary focus on medication management and beyond.