25-09-2020
The extension of this critical service comes as part of the Australian Federal Government’s recent announcement to provide ongoing support for a range of COVID-19 health measures for a further six months.
Since March, pharmacies around the country have been able to offer free delivery on prescriptions to eligible customers through funding provided under the Australian Federal Governments COVID-19 health measures and take advantage of Australia Post’s unrivalled national network.
The delivery option has supported vulnerable Australians, including those isolating at home on the advice of a medical practitioner, people over 70 and people with chronic health conditions.
In this short and extremely challenging period for Australians, the Australia Post Pharmacy Home Delivery Service has provided participating pharmacies the option to offer an efficient, reliable service to their most vulnerable customers needing essential medicines delivered to their door.
Australia Post has supported delivery on average of over 200 essential medical supplies per day, some days significantly higher, while a recent surge in Victoria driven by stage 4 restrictions has seen deliveries increase to over 300 per day.
The initiative allows vulnerable members of the community to receive medication and other essential supplies under 500grams through Australia Post’s Express Post network.
Federal Minister for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP, commented:
“The COVID-19 pandemic has seen many changes to the way Australians receive their medical care. The Medicines Home Delivery Service has helped many Australians stay safe and stay up to date with their prescriptions during these challenging times.”
“The Morrison Government is committed to providing additional support through the extension of universal telehealth, and programs including the Medicines Home Delivery Service.”
Australia Post Executive General Manager, Business, Government & International, Gary Starr, said he is incredibly proud of the critical role Australia Post has played in supporting those in our community who are reliant on delivery of essential medication from their local pharmacy.
“Over the last six months through the Pharmacy Home Delivery Service we’ve been able to implement a simple system that’s made a big difference for pharmacies and their customers right across the country, and we’re delighted to be announcing this extension,” said Mr Starr.
“The pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for everyone, but it has been particularly difficult for the elderly and vulnerable in our community who haven’t been able to travel safely to their local store or to the pharmacy as they normally would.
“Australia Post hasn’t closed for a single day through the pandemic; our Post Offices have remained open and our posties and drivers have been delivering every day, supporting businesses and the broader Australian community. We look forward to continuing to provide the safe and reliable delivery of essential medical supplies from a trusted brand like Australia Post.”
George Tambassis, National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, said: “We welcome the extension of support for delivery of essential medicines to patients’ homes. The delivery of medicines at this time is vital to ensure people maintain their health as much as possible during the pandemic. We thank Australia Post for providing this service option for pharmacies and their patients.”
Deliveries can be made to the home, or to a local Post Office or 24/7 Parcel Locker for pick-up.
Source: Australia Post