In an effort to reduce the number of people visiting pharmacies and comply with social distancing measures, doctors will be able to send digital scripts to pharmacies from April 17.
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Although it is designed to make it safer and easier for patients, Peter Smith TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacist Kate Gray said it has created added pressure to get their prescriptions.
"In the past we weren't allowed to use digital scripts, but with this roll out we will be able to access and process the emailed and faxed scripts from the doctor to deliver the medication to the patient," she said.
"However, the new arrangement may put strain and cause frustration it may not be automatically available until after the telehealth consultation is finished."
Mrs Gray also said although the pharmacy provides a free home delivery service, they're under immense strain to distribute the medication to patients on time.
"We are doing three to four times as many deliveries to the elderly and vulnerable as we were previously doing," she said.
McCarthy's Pharmacy pharmacist Sarah Smith said the digital scripts are aimed at reducing stress in the primary healthcare system.
"The health sector is heading to a paper-free environment and the COVID-19 crisis is giving the industry a push to move online," she said.
"Doctors in Orange have been receptive towards not only to their patients but also the pharmacy's needs by providing alternative medication as we are experiencing a shortage."
However, Ms Smith raised an issue about how the digital script service will help patients in the long-run.
"In the short term, the service will eliminate the stress and provide convenience for patients to access their medication," she said.
"But for continual care for the patient it may cause stress by replacing one-on-one time with their GP and pharmacist.
"People need to be aware of what medications they need and to call if they have any issues."
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