Pharmacies to Enhance Access and Supply of COVID-19 Medications

COVID-19 Antiviral Access Expands in New Zealand from September 2025

Auckland, New Zealand – Access to crucial COVID-19 antiviral medications will broaden significantly in New Zealand starting September 1, 2025. Pharmac, the country’s pharmaceutical management agency, announced today that both nirmatrelvir with ritonavir (Paxlovid) and remdesivir (Veklury) will be funded for all individuals aged 50 and over who have an active COVID-19 infection and are considered at high risk of hospitalization or death.Currently, access to these antivirals is limited to specific eligible groups. The updated criteria will simplify the process and extend protection to a wider segment of the population, especially those aged between 50 and 65 who previously may not have qualified.

“This change will improve access to antivirals for people between 50 and 65 years who are high risk and not already eligible,” explained Geraldine MacGibbon, Pharmac’s Director of Pharmaceuticals. Individuals who currently qualify for funded antiviral treatment will continue to have access under the new guidelines.

Streamlined Supply Chain for faster Access

Alongside the expanded eligibility, Pharmac is also transitioning to a standard funding and supply model for these medications. Previously, the pandemic necessitated a unique management approach. Now, pharmacies and hospitals will be able to directly order antivirals from wholesalers and claim reimbursement from Pharmac, mirroring the process for other funded medicines in New Zealand.”this will align the management of COVID-19 antivirals with other funded medicines in New Zealand,” MacGibbon stated, emphasizing the move towards a more efficient and integrated system.What This Means for Public Health

This decision represents a proactive step in managing COVID-19 as it evolves from a pandemic crisis to an endemic presence.By increasing access to early treatment options, New Zealand aims to reduce the burden on hospitals and improve patient outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of COVID-19 Treatment

The shift to a standard funding model also signals a long-term commitment to managing COVID-19 within the existing healthcare infrastructure. As new variants emerge and the virus continues to circulate, ensuring readily available access to effective treatments will remain a critical component of New Zealand’s public health strategy.

Further Information:

* Pharmac’s decision details: https://www.pharmac.govt.nz/news-and-resources/consultations-and-decisions/2025-08-decision-to-amend-access-to-covid-19-antivirals-and-change-supply-and-reimbursement-arrangements

What are the key benefits of pharmacist-initiated treatment pathways for COVID-19 antiviral medications?

Expanding Roles for Community Pharmacies in COVID-19 Management

As of August 11, 2025, pharmacies continue to play a crucial role in managing the ongoing presence of COVID-19.While the acute emergency phase has passed, effective access to antiviral medications and continued preventative measures remain vital. This article details how pharmacies are enhancing their capabilities to improve both access to and the supply of essential COVID-19 treatments, focusing on current strategies and future potential. We’ll cover everything from antiviral dispensing to vaccination programs and public health initiatives.

Current Landscape of COVID-19 Medication Access

The Australian Government Department of Health (https://www.health.gov.au/topics/covid-19) provides ongoing guidance on COVID-19 management. Currently, access to COVID-19 medications like antiviral treatments (Paxlovid, Lagevrio) is primarily through a doctor’s prescription. However,pharmacies are increasingly involved in streamlining this process.

Pharmacist-Initiated Treatment Pathways: Several pilot programs are exploring pharmacist-led assessment and dispensing of antiviral medications for eligible patients, reducing the burden on GPs and accelerating treatment initiation.This is particularly crucial for those in rural and remote areas with limited access to medical professionals.

Increased Stockpiles: National stockpiles of key medications are being maintained and strategically distributed to pharmacies across Australia, ensuring consistent supply even during localized outbreaks.

Telehealth Integration: Pharmacies are integrating with telehealth platforms, allowing for remote consultations and prescription fulfillment for eligible patients. This expands access for individuals who may be isolating or have mobility issues.

Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) Availability: Pharmacies remain a primary source for readily available and affordable Rapid Antigen Tests, enabling individuals to self-test and make informed decisions about seeking medical care.

Optimizing Supply Chain Management for COVID-19 Medications

Maintaining a robust supply chain is paramount. Several strategies are being employed to ensure pharmacies can consistently meet demand for COVID-19 medications:

1. Diversification of Suppliers: Reducing reliance on single suppliers minimizes disruption risks. The Australian government is actively working to diversify sourcing for critical medications.
2. Real-Time Inventory Tracking: Implementing real-time inventory tracking systems allows for better monitoring of stock levels and proactive replenishment. This prevents shortages and ensures equitable distribution.
3. Strategic Warehousing: Establishing strategically located regional warehouses allows for faster delivery of medications to pharmacies in need.
4. Collaboration with Manufacturers: Close collaboration with pharmaceutical manufacturers ensures timely production and delivery of medications, particularly in response to emerging variants.
5. Cold Chain management: Maintaining the integrity of the cold chain is crucial for the efficacy of some COVID-19 medications and vaccines. Pharmacies are investing in temperature monitoring and control systems.

The Role of Pharmacists in Vaccination Programs

pharmacies have been instrumental in the success of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program. Their continued involvement is vital for booster dose management and potential future variant-specific vaccine rollouts.

Expanded Vaccine Access: Pharmacies offer convenient and accessible vaccination services,frequently enough with extended hours and walk-in availability.

Vaccine Education and Counseling: Pharmacists provide valuable education and counseling to patients about vaccine benefits and potential side effects,addressing vaccine hesitancy.

Record Keeping and Reporting: pharmacies accurately record and report vaccination data to national registries, contributing to extensive monitoring of vaccination coverage.

co-administration of Vaccines: Many pharmacies now offer co-administration of COVID-19 vaccines with influenza vaccines,maximizing convenience for patients.

Benefits of Enhanced Pharmacy Involvement

Increased pharmacy involvement in COVID-19 medication access and supply offers numerous benefits:

Improved Public Health Outcomes: faster access to treatment and increased vaccination rates lead to reduced hospitalizations and mortality.

Reduced Burden on Healthcare System: Streamlining access through pharmacies alleviates pressure on GPs and hospitals.

Enhanced Convenience for Patients: Pharmacies offer convenient locations and extended hours, making it easier for patients to access care.

Increased Health Literacy: Pharmacists play a vital role in educating the public about COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

Equitable Access: Expanding access through pharmacies helps to address health disparities in underserved communities.

Practical Tips for Patients

Know Your Eligibility: Understand the criteria for accessing antiviral medications and booster doses. Consult the Department of Health website or your GP.

Keep Your GP Informed: Share your vaccination status and any relevant medical history with your GP.

Utilize Pharmacy Services: Take advantage of pharmacy vaccination clinics and pharmacist-led assessment programs.

Practice Preventative Measures: Continue to practice good hygiene,including handwashing and mask-wearing when appropriate.

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 information from reliable sources.

Case Study: Rural Pharmacy Innovation in NSW

In late 2024, a pharmacy in a remote NSW town implemented a telehealth-integrated service for COVID-19 antiviral access. Patients could complete a virtual assessment with a pharmacist, receive a prescription electronically, and have the medication dispensed and delivered to their home within 24 hours.This initiative significantly improved access for vulnerable populations and reduced the time to treatment initiation, demonstrating the potential