Frequently asked questions - skin conditions

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About the NSW Pharmacy Trial for skin conditions

NSW Health has sponsored a research trial to determine if it is safe for pharmacists to help manage common skin conditions, without a script fro​m a doctor.​

From 19 July 2024, participating pharmacists may​ be able to help eligible people manage common skin conditions including:

  • Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (e​czema) and be between 6 months and 65 years old (inclusive). 
  • Herpes zoster (shingles) and be 18 years and older. 
  • Impetigo (school sores) and be aged 12 months and older. 
  • Mild plaque psoriasis and be 18 years and older. 

The trial will close in February 2025 or when the maximum number of trial-supported consultations has been reached.

This page answers frequentl​​y asked questions (FAQs) about the NSW Pharmacy Trial. 

Eligibility

Why have I been referred to my doctor?

You may be referred to your doctor for further advice if you:

  • have a skin condition that is not included in the trial, or is not able to be assessed
  • have severe or reoccurring symptoms
  • have underlying medical conditions, for example, you have a weak immune system
  • are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
  • take other medications and taking another medication may not be recommended
  • have had allergies or severe reactions to ingredients in the treatment
  • have not responded to the same treatment before
  • do not meet the age criteria set for each condition.

My information and privacy

What information do I need to provide?

The pharmacist will ask questions to:

  • assess your skin condition 
  • check if you are eligible to receive treatment 
  • provide you with advice.

The pharmacist may ask you:

  • your name and date of birth
  • your contact details
  • your doctor's (GP) name
  • when your skin condition started
  • about your symptoms
  • about any previous treatment for your skin condition (if you have had this condition before) 
  • if you have any other medical conditions
  • if you have any allergies
  • if you take any other medicine (prescription or non-prescription)
  • if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or are planning to become pregnant
  • if you have received the herpes zoster and varicella vaccinations (shingles only).

The pharmacist will also ask you to fill out an online form to say that you consent to participating in the trial.​

​​Will my doctor be notified of my treatment?

Yes, your pharmacist will notify your nominated doctor directly or they will give you a letter to take to them next time you visit, with your consent.

How will my information be used and kept safe?

The information you provide will be kept securely by your pharmacist and the research team.

You will receive a follow-up call or emailed survey from researchers after your consultation with the pharmacist.

In any publication, report or presentation about the trial, information will be presented so participants cannot be identified. A copy of the summary of the results from this research may be provided to participants.

Data will be kept securely for a minimum period of 15 years from the completion of the research project. Information will be managed and stored in accordance with the University of Newcastle’s Research Data and Materials Management Guideline or any successor Guideline as well as any other applicable University of Newcastle policy provisions.

My safety

Does the pharmacist have appropriate training?

Pharmacists who are participating in the trial have had additional training for common skin conditions.

Participating pharmacists are provided with clinical guidance as to who they may be able to treat and who may be referred to their doctor or an Emergency Department. ​

These guidelines were developed by the research team in consultation with key stakeholders and are based on international best practice.

How do I report a concern about my safety or care?

Your pharmacist will provide you with a digital participant information sheet as part of your consultation. You can use the contact details on this information sheet to report a safety concern directly to the research team.

Concerns about professional practice and care can also be made to the Health Care Complaints Commission​​​or the Pharmacy Council of NSW.​

Why is a trial being run in NSW?

While we recognise pharmacist supply of certain medicines for some minor conditions could lead to earlier treatment and may assist in reducing symptoms and distress, it is important to ensure that any risks for individuals and the population will be balanced by the benefits.

Trials have been run in Australia before, however there are significant differences in primary care arrangements across Australia. Evidence from interstate programs is not directly comparable to the primary care system in NSW.

​Finding a pharmacist

Where can I find a pharmacist that is participating in the trial?

This list and map of participating pharmacies​ will help you find the nearest one.

I live on the NSW border - can I get advice and treatment from a pharmacist?

The NSW Government has partnered with the ACT Government to enable some pharmacies in the ACT to participate in the skin conditions trial. Find a participating pharmacy near you.

Please note, other states have different services and eligibility requirements available through community pharmacies:

​My local pharmacy is not participating in the trial. Why?

Pharmacy and pharmacist participation in the trial is voluntary. Therefore, not all pharmacists will be providing advice or treatment.

Pharmacists must complete training before they provide these services.

More pharmacies may come on board as the trial progresses. Keep checking NSW Pharmacy Trial – Participating Pharmacies​ over the coming months to see if your local pharmacy is participating.


Current as at: Friday 19 July 2024
Contact page owner: Pharmaceutical Services