As at June 2024 Podiatrists are unable to prescribe medicines. If they were, podiatrists could play a key role in the reduction of challenges faced by the health system and contribute to more efficient services for patients and reduced burden on the health system.
It is proposed that podiatrists are extended designated prescribing authority under the Medicines Act 1981. This will allow podiatrists who complete the additional training to prescribe a specified range of medicines relevant to podiatric practice.
The rationale for extending prescribing authority to podiatrists is to increase quality and efficiency of care, reduce burden on the health system, reduce barriers to accessing podiatric care, and improve health outcomes.