Influenza Vaccinations

Ms COOK (Fisher) (14:07): My question is for the Minister for Health. Following the introduction of pharmacist-administered influenza vaccinations last year, will you consider expanding the types of vaccinations pharmacists can provide?

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Health Industries) (14:07): It is wonderful to have a question from the member for Fisher, a member who really understands our health system and in particular understands the importance of nurses in our health system, something sadly lacking from the Leader of the Opposition—you would think that it is only doctors who work in our health system—and he completely ignores nurses and allied health and I should say pharmacists.

In January last year, the government moved to allow appropriately-trained pharmacists to administer the influenza vaccine throughout South Australia. I am pleased to report that since then more than 200 pharmacists have been trained to provide influenza vaccinations. Every year, thousands of South Australians are struck down with the flu, even though it is an illness which can be easily prevented with a simple flu vaccination. Given the terrible flu seasons our state has had over the past two years, it is crucial we do everything we can to support people being vaccinated.

Allowing pharmacists to directly administer the flu shot has encouraged a greater uptake of the vaccine, especially by people who feel they don't have time to visit a GP. In fact, I was the first person to be given the flu vaccination at my local pharmacy in Para Hills. While having the injection in front of a room full of journalists was not ideal, I can say that the experience was quick and relatively painless.

Currently, pharmacists can vaccinate adults over the age of 16 who are not already eligible for a flu shot as part of the National Immunisation Program. People who are eligible for the free flu vaccine as part of the annual influenza program—including pregnant women, people aged over 65, and those with underlying health conditions—still need to visit their GP to receive the free vaccination.

Members interjecting:

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING: Given the success of enabling pharmacists to deliver flu vaccinations, I am keen to explore what other vaccinations can now be delivered safely by pharmacists to ensure an even greater uptake of vaccination in the community. I note that Queensland has recently allowed pharmacists to administer vaccinations like measles, mumps and rubella, as well as pertussis, and I have asked SA Health to explore the possibility of introducing this measure in South Australia.

In exploring the potential of pharmacists delivering these vaccinations, the government will consult with relevant parties, such as the AMA and the Pharmacy Guild. Immunisation is one of the most effective strategies to protect our community against many illnesses, and this government will continue to explore more ways to ensure vaccinations can be delivered to as many people as possible in a safe and efficient manner.