Funding changes for pharmacyfilled medication packs

Managing multiple medications can be complex and overwhelming, with
potential negative impacts on your health if not managed correctly. Some of our
participants prefer to take their tablets from the original medication packaging,
but many others need some help to take their medications correctly and in
accordance with the doctor’s prescription.

We sometimes recommend that participants consider having their medications
packed by their pharmacist into a Dose Administration Aid (DAA), to add a layer
of security by eliminating medication mishaps and mistakes.

Dose Administration Aids are suitable for people who:

• Take multiple, frequent medications
• Forget to take their medicine
• Are at risk of double-dosing
• Have difficulties with opening medication packaging

We aim to ensure you use the safest and most convenient method to meet your
medication needs so that you take your medication correctly, every time, every
day. Whilst the cost is relatively low (typically between $6 and $10 per pack),
this amount was often funded for consumers under the previous Home Care
Packages program.

Unfortunately, the new Support at Home program no longer funds the preparation of DAAs by pharmacists. This means participants are now
responsible for covering the subsidised cost themselves, unless they are eligible for support through their pharmacy’s other programs.

This change means that for the first time, many participants will be asked to pay out-of-pocket to have their medication packed and delivered by their pharmacist.

Please ask your pharmacist about options, or talk to your Care Partner about how
this funding change affects you.