Extended pharmacy trial offers cheaper and easier access to the pill, UTI treatments

Key points

• All women will soon be able to get the pill and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections from pharmacies at lower cost. The federal government has widened a 12-month trial that was first announced for concession card holders only.
• The trial is expected to start early next year. The government will cover up to $38 for a pharmacist consultation, and women will pay no more than $25 per script.
• Health Minister Mark Butler said the change would improve access and affordability. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia welcomed the move, while doctors raised concerns about possible misdiagnoses.