Short answer
In the Northern Territory, trained pharmacists at participating pharmacies can treat uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 18 to 65, resupply or start contraception, give vaccines, and treat common conditions such as ear infections, reflux, shingles and eczema. Each pharmacy chooses which services it offers.
At a glance
Pharmacy services in the NT
Under the NT's expanded pharmacy program, trained pharmacists working in an approved pharmacy with a consultation room can assess and treat:
- Urinary tract infections
- Mild plaque psoriasis flare-ups
- Minor wounds
- Nausea and vomiting from gastro
- Outer ear infection (swimmer's ear)
- Middle ear infection
- Hay fever and other rhinitis
- Reflux and heartburn (GORD)
- Shingles
- School sores (impetigo)
- Mild muscle and joint pain
- Mild to moderate acne
- Mild to moderate eczema
They can also resupply or start contraception, and help with weight management, quitting smoking, travel health, and oral health checks with fluoride. Pharmacists choose which of these they offer, so call ahead.
UTI treatment without a doctor
Women aged 18 to 65 who aren't pregnant can be treated for an uncomplicated UTI. You'll be referred to a GP if you've taken antibiotics in the last 2 weeks, were treated for a UTI in the last 6 months, have had more than two in a year, or have kidney problems such as kidney disease or stones.
Vaccinations
Pharmacist immunisers in the NT give a wider range of vaccines than they used to, including government-funded and private travel vaccines. Free National Immunisation Program vaccines are available at registered pharmacies for eligible people aged 5 and over. Ask about the minimum age for the vaccine you need.
What any pharmacist can do
- Supply up to 7 days of a regular medicine in an emergency if you've had it from a pharmacy or doctor before and can't get a script in time
- For some regular PBS medicines, such as asthma, diabetes, heart, cholesterol and contraceptive pill medicines, supply one more pack without a script when you're stable and can't get a new one in time. This can be done once in 12 months (continued dispensing)
- Fill valid eScripts and paper scripts from your doctor or other prescriber
- Advise on minor illnesses and over-the-counter medicines, and tell you when to see a doctor
What it costs
A consultation may cost a fee, depending on how long it takes, and isn't covered by Medicare. Anything supplied isn't PBS-subsidised. The pharmacist must explain the cost first and mention cheaper options, such as a bulk-billing GP.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Services differ from pharmacy to pharmacy, so call ahead. In an emergency call 000.