Vulnerable patients who hold a medical card, including those with diagnosed cognitive impairment or dementia, intellectual disability, physical impairment or those experiencing social exclusion including homelessness can be supported with optimisation aids where clinically indicated.
If, after an assessment, a pharmacist determines, using their professional and clinical judgement, that a GMS (medical card) patient requires a blister pack (or other medicines optimisation supports) for clinical or patient safety reasons, it will be provided without charge.
I encourage all patients to talk to their pharmacist about any difficulties they may have in managing their medicines. Pharmacists will be able to advise patients of the different options that are available to help with managing their medication.
Supports to help patients take their medicines are varied and include interventions such as reminder charts, easy open lids and reminder alarms. In line with international evidence, blister packs should only be used as a last resort.
