Australia Post’s free new service amid coronavirus pandemic
Australia Post has announced a new free service to help the vulnerable and those self-isolating access prescription medications without leaving their home.
The Pharmacy Home Delivery Service, which started on Monday will allow pharmacies around the country to offer free delivery on prescriptions to their customers.
The initiative will help support vulnerable Australians, including those self isolating themselves at home, people over 70 and people with chronic health conditions.
The delivery service gives members of the community the option to receive medication and other essential supplies (under 500 grams) through Australia Post’s Express Post network once a month.
Pharmacies can then receive the full cost back through government rebate.
Christine Holgate, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Australia Post said coronavirus is having a major impact on the lives of Australians and it’s important to introduce a home delivery system for local pharmacies.
“We know so many people rely on their local pharmacy for essential medication, particularly the vulnerable and elderly who may not be able to visit their local store. Making delivery to people’s homes is critical at this time,” Ms Holgate said.
It’s hoped the new delivery service will also boost small businesses struggling as customers opt to stay home.
“We also understand the challenges facing small business at the moment and we have designed a simple system that will allow pharmacies to offer Express Post delivery to their customers from Monday, allowing them to continue to trade,” Ms Holgate said.
George Tambassic, National President of the Pharmacy Guild, said this important service would add to the options available for the countless community members who rely on medication to maintain their health and wellbeing.
“Pharmacies provide critical services to members of the community who require medicines and health advice, with many Australians reliant on continued medication to support their long-term health,” he said.
“In any one year there are over 465 million individual patient visits to community pharmacies around the country.”
Deliveries can be made to homes, or to a local Post Office or 24/7 Parcel Locker for pick-up.