Measures implemented in Australia are flattening the COVID-19 curve to a point where the health system can meet expected demand, early data suggests.

The COVID-19 pandemic makes it more important than ever for Australians to access influenza vaccinations and pharmacist immunisers are ready to help protect the community.

As many Australians settle into a new normal of working from home, virtual meetings and social distancing, community pharmacies are finding ways to operate and even innovate in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With stricter social distancing measures in place and more Australians, particularly the elderly, choosing to remain at home due to COVID-19, many community pharmacies have had increased demand for home delivery.

As confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia tick over 4,700, many pharmacists face long working hours and the rising challenge of unacceptable customer behaviour.

Emergency measures to allow continued access to essential medicines through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) have been extended to at least 30 June this year.

Elective surgeries will be cancelled, Australians are banned from travelling overseas and more non-essential businesses will close their doors as cases of COVID-19 in Australia surge past 2,000.

As businesses including pubs, gyms and beauty salons close tonight to promote social distancing, community pharmacies remain open as one of the most essential services.

Communication is key to ensuring patient health literacy.

University of South Australia Emeritus Professor Lloyd Sansom AO FPS has led improvements in the quality use of medicines in Australia and internationally. When he began his career pharmacists were ‘mixing up all types of concoctions’, said the 2018...