In a recent submission paper entitled ‘Solutions for an effective 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement (6CPA)’, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has called for increased funding and better arrangements for HMRs and RMMRs.

It argues that consumers are missing out on important medication reviews as a result of the caps introduced by the Pharmacy Guild in March 2014.

The PSA believes the funding for HMRs in the 5CPA was inadequate at $52 million (less than the $54 million provided under the 4CPA), and that it must be lifted to at least $81 million over the 6CPA period.

It would also like to see criteria introduced to ensure that HMRs are targeted at those who will benefit most, particularly Indigenous patients in remote areas. Suggestions include relaxing requirements for service caps and pre-approvals for pharmacists servicing remote areas and additional rural loading to cover actual expenses.

Other recommendations include extending the claiming window from 30 days to 60 days and providing greater clarity on the reasons for claim rejections.

For the full list of recommendations, read the document here.