NSW GP-Politician Criticises Pharmacy Contraception Prescribing

NSW GP-Politician Criticises Pharmacy Contraception Prescribing

11 May 2026

Amanda Cohn, who was elected to the NSW Legislative Council in 2023, spoke against the policy in Parliament last week.

The Greens health spokesperson said women deserve comprehensive healthcare and accused governments of ignoring expert medical advice.

Dr Cohn said the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) had previously rejected changes to make oral contraceptives more easily available without doctor involvement because of safety concerns.

In 2021, the TGA decided oral contraceptives should remain Schedule 4 medicines, saying medical practitioner involvement is important for routine health checks and ongoing reviews.

Dr Cohn said the NSW Government is spending $4.5 million on pharmacist consultations instead of helping patients access GPs for broader contraception advice and care.

She also argued that other contraception options, such as implantable rods and intrauterine devices, can be safer and more effective for many women.

According to Dr Cohn, some patients using the pill may face higher risks of blood clots and strokes depending on their medical history.

Michael Wright supported the concerns, saying governments appear to be overriding previous TGA recommendations.

He warned that introducing pharmacy prescribing before national standards and accreditation processes are completed may be premature and could create safety risks.

In response, NSW Labor MP Emily Suvaal said the Government respects Dr Cohn’s expertise but believes pharmacists can safely provide the service with extra training.

Around 60 NSW pharmacists are expected to begin initiating contraceptive prescriptions from 1 June after completing further training through James Cook University.

The Victorian Government has also announced plans to allow pharmacists to initiate contraceptive pill supply without a GP prescription.

 
Source: newsGP

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