The Government has just confirmed the extension of Medication Review Numbers (MRNs) which enable claiming for complex medication reviews for Australian patients by accredited pharmacists.

All existing provider numbers had been set to expire effective 01 July, ceasing Federal Government-funded medication management services in patients' homes (HMR) and residential aged care facilities (RMMR).

The extension was announced by Department of Health Assistant Secretary of Pharmacy, David Laffan, during an address at the inaugural Consultant Pharmacists Conference in Adelaide (CPC23). Laffan confirmed that existing accreditation will remain valid until 30 June 2024 or until the new APC standards are finalised.

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President, Dr Fei Sim, welcomed the update, saying the issue of expiring MRNs had been urgently raised with the Government by the Society.

Laffan also confirmed that the implementation of the Government's $350 million investment in pharmacists in residential aged care facilities would provide for one pharmacist per 250 beds, with a pharmacist on-site at least one day per week.

More details in Monday's issue of Pharmacy Daily.