Judy Hannan, the independent state member for Wollondilly, is an optometrist by profession.
And if she talks about a problem that needs to be fixed that relates to optometrists, she knows what she’s talking about.
Here is the problem: Currently in Australia, therapeutically endorsed optometrists have been able to prescribe scheduled topical medications such as drops and ointments) since 2010.
However, they cannot prescribe the oral medications – antibiotics, antivirals – required to treat common conditions such as eye infections.
If an optometry patient needs an oral medication, they must obtain the prescription from a general practitioner or relevant specialist such as an ophthalmologist.
“Today optometrists in New Zealand can prescribe oral medications for eye diseases yet in Australia optometrists are limited due to the word ‘topical’ being a limit on the medication they can prescribe,” says Ms Hannan.
“The limitation on medicine types that are allowed to be prescribed by optometrists leads to referrals to doctors.
“In regional communities doctors often have waiting lists for weeks or their books are closed.
“Amending this limitation will make a difference for those communities in most need, allowing patients to receive fast treatment and saving eyesight,’’ Ms Hannan said.
“The benefits would be substantial both for doctors and patients.
“Patients will be saved from the inconvenience and out-of-pocket costs of having a GP or specialist for the oral medication.
“Patients will have more timely access to the medications instead of waiting for, or not following through with this additional appointment, potentially putting their vision at risk.
“The benefits will be greater in locations with inferior access to health professionals and for socially and economically disadvantaged patients.’’
Ms Hannan was able to put her views on the matter yesterday, when she met with NSW minister for health Ryan Park, representatives from Health NSW as well as the CEO of Optometry NSW/Canberra Andrew McKinnon and Optometrist and Professional Services and Advocacy manager Paula Katalinic.
“I am thankful to Minister Park for listening to the concerns of regional communities and representatives of Optometry NSW/Canberra,’’ Ms Hannan said.
“I look forward to working with him in this space to bring change that is desperately needed.’’
