60-Day Scripts Uptake Slow

60-Day Scripts Uptake Slow

28 Apr 2026

 

The policy, introduced in September 2023, allows eligible patients to receive two months’ worth of certain medicines on a single prescription. It aims to reduce costs and pharmacy visits.

However, GPs say it can be difficult to keep track of which medicines qualify. Some also report issues with prescribing software, which often requires manual changes instead of offering 60-day scripts as a default.

There have also been reports that some pharmacists were initially resistant to the change, although this may be improving after updates to pharmacy funding agreements.

Interviews with doctors found mixed use of the policy. Some GPs regularly offer 60-day prescriptions, others only provide them when patients ask, and some rarely use them.

Pharmacists raised concerns about medicine supply, dispensing errors, and reduced income as possible challenges. Some doctors and pharmacists also worry that patients on longer prescriptions may not return for regular check-ups.

Despite these issues, the policy is already showing benefits. For blood pressure medicines, 60-day prescriptions have increased significantly and now make up over 20% of dispensing in that category.

This shift has saved patients around $65 million so far. Experts say increasing uptake further could lead to even greater savings for both patients and the healthcare system.

The RACGP is encouraging better awareness, improved software systems, and clearer communication so more patients can benefit from the policy. 

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: RACGP / newsGP report on 60-day dispensing evaluation

 

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