Parliament of South Australia
Select Inquiry into Access to UTI Treatment
Monday 5 December 2022
A Parliamentary Committee has been set up to examine how pharmacists could safely and promptly dispense medication for painful urinary tract infections.
Member for Badcoe Jayne Stinson has been elected Chair of the new inquiry, which was established with the support of the government, Opposition and cross bench.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common with 50 per cent of South Australian women suffering the painful condition and 5 per cent of men.
An uncomplicated UTI is commonly caused by bacteria in the urethra, bladder and/or kidneys and is often difficult to predict or prevent. The infection causes intense pain during urination, the constant sensation of needing to urinate and discomfort throughout the period of infection.
If untreated, or if treatment is delayed, a UTI can result in admission to hospital for kidney infection or other complications.
Currently sufferers must book an appointment with a GP to obtain a script for medication. For many people, this can mean days of pain and discomfort before securing an appointment and effective treatment. For those in regional areas, the wait may be much longer.
Queensland allows specially-trained pharmacists to assess patients for uncomplicated UTIs and provide medication. Under the scheme, if a pharmacist is unconvinced a patient has an uncomplicated UTI, the patient is referred to a GP.
In recent weeks, the NSW and Victorian governments have announced they will also trial pharmacist-dispensed UTI medication for uncomplicated cases.
Quotes from Committee Chair Jayne Stinson MP
UTIs are sudden, excruciating and common. Half of all SA women suffer a UTI - some very frequently. The long wait to see a doctor, get a script and obtain medication only makes things worse.
This inquiry will investigate how other jurisdictions are providing safe and timely access to UTI medication through pharmacies and what model might work in SA.
I thank the cross bench and Opposition for their support to establish the committee and we look forward to working together to address this important women’s health concern.
The Committee is keen to hear from all interested parties about the best approach for South Australian sufferers – including medical professionals, women’s health advocates and people who experience UTIs.
For interviews contact Committee Chair Jayne Stinson on 0458 547 512