South Australians have embraced Adelaide's three 24-7 pharmacies, with more than 50,000 people receiving after-hours care and over 20,000 prescriptions dispensed since the program was launched earlier this year.
As of 4 July 2024, the Salisbury Plain Chemist Warehouse had 26,631 customers visit in hours when the pharmacy would have previously been closed.
A further 15,095 customers attended the Clovelly Park Chemist Warehouse during its extended hours, while 8503 customers visited the National Pharmacies at Norwood outside of hours that it was previously open for.
Together the pharmacies dispensed 20,683 scripts during the additional opening hours and took 3382 phone calls from people seeking pharmacist advice or checking availability of products.
The pharmacies were selected through a competitive tender process and are located in northern, southern and central Adelaide to provide the broadest access.
The State Government is investing $2.5 million a year to fund the initiative, with one of its aims being to relieve pressure on busy hospital emergency departments.
National Pharmacies at Norwood was the first to open its doors around the clock on February 4, followed by Chemist Warehouse pharmacies at Salisbury Plain and Clovelly Park on March 4.
Each of the three pharmacies has a pharmacist on staff 24 hours a day to provide expert advice and professional pharmacy services, including dispensing prescription medications.
They also have security plans including on-site security guards overnight.
The State Government has also expanded the range of services pharmacies can provide, including treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
SA Health Chief Pharmacist Naomi Burgess said having 24-hour access to pharmacies was a bonus for South Australians.
"Having this 24-hour option means more and more South Australians have access to skilled pharmacists, advice and medications, any time it’s needed," Ms Burgess said.
"Health doesn’t have a schedule, but now there’s peace of mind knowing a pharmacy will be there if you need it no matter the time.
"Pharmacists can often find themselves at the frontline of healthcare, and with early intervention, can help avoid more serious symptoms developing. Referrals can also be made to GPs or other health services if further care is required."
