Everything you need to know before you book
In-Store Professional Services
Looking for more than just prescriptions?
Northpharm offer a range of professional in-store services designed to help you manage your health and well-being. From medication packing to vaccinations, our friendly pharmacists are here to provide personalised care and support across every step of your health journey.
Vaccinations
At Northpharm, we believe that taking care of your health should be easy and accessible. That's why we're proud to offer a range of vaccinations right here in your local community. We're here to support you and your family in staying healthy.
Protecting Yourself and Your Community
Immunisations are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you from serious, preventable diseases [1]. It's a simple act that makes a huge difference.
Vaccination Services
Northpharm offer a range of vaccination and immunisation services. Services vary from store to store and may require pre-booking. Please call ahead to confirm your local store has availability.
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The flu (influenza) is more than just a bad cold; it can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death [2]. That's why an annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over [2]. Getting your flu shot each year helps your body build protection against the circulating strains of the virus, reducing your chances of getting sick and lessening the severity of symptoms if you do.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
Everyone aged 6 months and over [2]
Children aged 6 months to 5 years [2]
Pregnant women (to protect both mum and baby) [2]
People aged 65 years and over [2]
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over [2]
People with certain underlying medical conditions [2]
Our friendly pharmacists can administer your flu vaccine quickly and conveniently, helping you stay ahead of flu season.
+ Find your local pharmacy that provides the flu vaccination.
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Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can be particularly dangerous, even deadly, for babies and young children who are too young to be fully vaccinated [3]. Getting vaccinated against whooping cough is crucial, especially for those in close contact with infants [3].
Important for Expectant Parents and Carers
The whooping cough vaccine is highly recommended for pregnant women, ideally between 20 and 32 weeks of each pregnancy. This helps to pass on protective antibodies to your baby before they are born, offering vital protection in their first vulnerable months [3]. Family members and carers of young infants should also consider getting vaccinated [3].
+ Find your local pharmacy that provides the Whooping Cough vaccination.
Benefits of Vaccinations and Immunisations
Beyond directly protecting you from specific diseases, vaccinations offer a wealth of benefits:
Prevent Serious Illness
Vaccines significantly reduce your risk of contracting serious diseases that can lead to severe complications, long-term health problems, or even death [1].
Protect Vulnerable Individuals
By getting vaccinated, you help create "herd immunity," safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated (e.g., infants, the elderly, or those with certain medical conditions) [1].
Reduce Healthcare Burden
Widespread vaccination reduces the number of people requiring hospitalisation and treatment for vaccine-preventable diseases, easing the strain on our healthcare system [1].
Contribute to a Healthier Community
Immunisation programs have played a vital role in eradicating or significantly reducing the incidence of many infectious diseases globally [1].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vaccinations
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Yes! Our trained pharmacists are authorised to administer a range of common vaccinations, including the flu and whooping cough vaccines, making it easy and accessible for you to get protected.
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While walk-ins may be accommodated, we generally recommend booking an appointment to ensure a pharmacist is available and to minimise your waiting time. You can book online or call us directly.
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Yes, vaccines undergo rigorous testing and monitoring to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Serious side effects are rare [1]. Our pharmacists will discuss any potential side effects with you before your vaccination.
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No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The flu vaccines used in Australia do not contain live influenza virus [4].
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Vaccines work by teaching your immune system to recognise and fight specific germs without you having to get sick [5]. They introduce a weakened or inactive form of the virus or bacteria, or a component of it, prompting your body to produce protective antibodies [5].
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It's common to experience mild side effects like soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or muscle aches. These are usually mild and resolve within a day or two [1]. If you have any concerns, please speak to our pharmacist.
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Some vaccinations, such as certain flu and whooping cough vaccines for eligible groups, are free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) [6]. For privately funded vaccinations, your private health insurance may offer rebates depending on your level of cover. Please check with your insurer. Our team can also advise you on costs.
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An annual flu vaccination is recommended because the influenza virus strains change each year, and the protection from the vaccine typically lasts for 3-4 months [4].
We are committed to making your vaccination experience as comfortable as possible. If you have any questions or would like to discuss which vaccinations are right for you, please don't hesitate to speak to our friendly team.
+ Find your local pharmacy that provides vaccinations
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The content on this webpage reflects information published by the Australian Government, with numbered sources referenced throughout. For the full list of references in this content, together with relevant links, please see below.
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Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Immunisation.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Influenza (flu) vaccine.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. About the flu vaccine.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. How vaccines work.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. National Immunisation Program.
Absence from Work Certificates
Unexpected illness can be stressful, and dealing with paperwork shouldn't add to your worries. That's why we're here to offer convenient and caring support for your health needs, including absence from work certificates. We aim to make managing your well-being as simple and accessible as possible.
What is an Absence from Work Certificate?
An absence from work certificate (sometimes called a 'pharmacist certificate' or 'sick day certificate') is an official document provided by a registered pharmacist [1]. It verifies that you have been assessed by a pharmacist and, based on your symptoms, are unable to attend work or require a period of rest due to a minor illness or condition [1]. It's a quick and easy way to provide your employer with the necessary documentation when you're feeling under the weather.
When might you need one?
If you're experiencing minor, self-limiting conditions that prevent you from performing your work duties, an absence from work certificate from our pharmacy might be exactly what you need. It's designed for those situations where a doctor's visit isn't necessary or if you’re unable to find an appointment, but you still need official documentation for your employer.
FAQs about Absence from Work Certificates
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Yes! Our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms for minor conditions and issue an absence from work certificate if deemed appropriate [1]. This service is designed for your convenience.
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Pharmacists are qualified to assess minor, self-limiting conditions. However, we cannot issue certificates for:
Serious or complex medical conditions requiring a doctor's diagnosis or ongoing management (e.g., chronic diseases, mental health conditions, injuries requiring medical intervention).
Conditions that require a physical examination beyond what a pharmacist can reasonably perform in the pharmacy setting.
Conditions that warrant referral to a medical doctor for further investigation or treatment.
Work-related injuries or illnesses covered by workers' compensation. If your symptoms indicate a more serious underlying issue, our pharmacist will always recommend you see a medical doctor for a comprehensive assessment [1].
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No they can not [1]. Absence from work certificates are issued based on an assessment of your current symptoms at the time of your consultation [1]. For legal and ethical reasons, pharmacists cannot backdate certificates for absences that occurred before the consultation. It's always best to seek a certificate on the day your absence begins or as soon as possible thereafter.
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Yes, a pharmacist may decline to issue an absence from work certificate if, in their professional judgment:
Your symptoms indicate a more serious condition that requires a doctor's assessment.
They are unable to confidently assess your condition within the scope of their practice.
They believe your request is not for a genuine illness or absence.
You are requesting backdating for an absence that occurred prior to the consultation [1].
Our pharmacists have a professional responsibility to ensure certificates are issued ethically and appropriately. If a certificate cannot be issued, they will explain why and advise you on the best course of action for your health.
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Here's a quick breakdown:
Absence from Work Certificate (Pharmacist Certificate): Issued by a registered pharmacist for minor, self-limiting illnesses [1]. It confirms a pharmacist's assessment that you were unfit for work due to your symptoms. It's generally for short, uncomplicated absences.
Medical Certificate: Issued by a medical doctor (GP). Doctors can assess and certify a much wider range of conditions, including more serious illnesses, chronic conditions, injuries, and mental health issues [2]. Medical certificates can also cover longer periods of absence and may include details about your condition if relevant for specific purposes (e.g., return-to-work plans) [2].
While an absence from work certificate from our pharmacy is a convenient option for minor illnesses, always consult a medical doctor for more serious or ongoing health concerns.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The content on this webpage reflects information published by the Pharmaceutical Society if Australia, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the Australian Government, with numbered sources referenced throughout. For the full list of references in this content, together with relevant links, please see below.
We are here to support your health journey and make necessary documentation easy to obtain. If you have any further questions or need an absence from work certificate, please visit us at Northpharm and speak to our friendly team.
+ Find your local Northpharm pharmacy that provides absence from work certificates.
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Pharmaceutical Society of Australia / Pharmacy Guild of Australia Pharmacist Absence from Work Certificates.
Fair Work Ombudsman. Medical certificates and other evidence.
eScripts
At Northpharm, we believe that taking care of your health should be easy and accessible. That's why we're proud to offer a range of vaccinations right here in your local community. We're here to support you and your family in staying healthy.
What are eScripts?
An eScript, or electronic prescription, is simply a digital version of the traditional paper prescription you receive from your doctor. Instead of a piece of paper, your doctor can now send your prescription directly to your mobile phone via SMS or email, or to your secure Active Script List (ASL).
Each eScript comes with a unique "token," which is typically a QR code or barcode. This token holds all the necessary information about your prescription, securely encrypted and ready to be accessed by your pharmacist.
The Benefits of Going Digital with eScripts
Switching to eScripts offers a range of advantages for your health and convenience:
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No more worrying about lost or misplaced paper prescriptions. Your eScript token is stored securely on your phone or in a digital app, accessible whenever you need it. This is especially helpful if you're travelling or unable to physically visit your doctor.
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eScripts reduce the risk of transcription errors and can improve medication safety by providing a clear, digital record of your prescription.
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You can easily forward your eScript token to our pharmacy in advance, allowing us to prepare your medication for quick pickup or even delivery (where available). This saves you time and reduces waiting at the counter.
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For repeat prescriptions, a new token is automatically issued to you after each dispense, making it simple to keep track of your medication schedule.
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For those managing multiple medications, the ASL provides a consolidated digital list of all your active eScripts and even some barcoded paper prescriptions. With your consent, your pharmacist can access this list, eliminating the need to manage individual tokens.
How to Access Your eScripts with MedAdvisor
We partner with MedAdvisor, a leading medication management app, to make your eScript experience even smoother. MedAdvisor acts as your personal digital script wallet, keeping all your prescriptions organised and accessible.
Here's how to access and manage your eScripts using the MedAdvisor app:
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If you haven't already, download the free MedAdvisor app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your smartphone or tablet.
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Follow the prompts within the app to create your account and connect with your local Northpharm pharmacy as your preferred pharmacy. This allows us to link your prescriptions to your MedAdvisor profile.
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When your doctor issues an eScript, they will send you a unique token via SMS or email. There are a few ways to add this to your MedAdvisor app:
· "Add to App" (Direct Link): If your doctor sends a link in the SMS/email, simply tap on it. The MedAdvisor app will open and prompt you to add the eScript token.
· Scan QR Code: If you receive a QR code, open the MedAdvisor app, select "Add eScript token," and choose "Scan QR Code." Point your device's camera at the QR code to scan it.
Add Token Manually: If you receive a unique prescription code, open the MedAdvisor app, select "Add eScript token," and choose "Add token manually." Enter the code and select "Add."
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Once your eScript is added to MedAdvisor, you can:
View Your Medications: See a live list of all your prescribed medications, including repeats remaining and expiry dates.
Order Ahead: When you're running low, the app will remind you. Simply select the medication, tap "Order," choose pick-up or delivery (where available), and place your order. We'll get it ready for you!
Access Your Active Script List (ASL): If you've registered for an ASL, your eScripts will automatically appear here, simplifying management of multiple medications.
Set Reminders: The app can help you remember when to take your medication and when to reorder.
Frequently Asked Questions about eScripts
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Don't worry! Contact your doctor to ask them to cancel the lost token and issue a new one. If it was a repeat token, the pharmacy that dispensed the original script can often reissue it.
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No, a My Health Record is not necessary to use eScripts.
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Yes, you can still choose to receive a paper prescription if that's your preference. eScripts are an alternative, not a replacement.
Talk to your doctor about getting your next prescription as an eScript, and then connect with us at Northpharm through the MedAdvisor app. We're here to help you make the most of this convenient and secure way to manage your medications.
Medication Reviews
At Northpharm, we believe that managing your health should be empowering, not overwhelming. That's why we offer comprehensive Medication Reviews, a vital service designed to help you get the most out of your medicines.
What is a Medication Review?
A Medication Review is a personalised, in-depth consultation with one of our specially trained pharmacists [1]. It's an opportunity to discuss all your medications – including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements – to ensure they are working effectively and safely for you [1].
There are two main types of funded Medication Reviews in Australia:
Home Medicines Review (HMR).
Conducted in the comfort of your own home, often for those managing multiple medications or with complex health conditions. This service is typically initiated by your GP [1].
MedsCheck / Diabetes MedsCheck.
An in-pharmacy review, offering a focused discussion on your medicines, often for general medication management or specifically for those with Type 2 Diabetes [1,2].
The Benefits of a Medication Review
Participating in a Medication Review offers a multitude of benefits, helping you to reach further in your health journey:
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We'll help ensure your medications are working optimally to manage your conditions, identifying if any adjustments could improve your health outcomes. [1]
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By reviewing your complete medication regimen, we can identify potential interactions or adverse effects, helping to minimise unwanted reactions [2,3].
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Gain a clearer understanding of why you're taking each medication, how to take it correctly, and what to expect. This empowers you to manage your own health with greater confidence [4].
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For those on multiple medications, we can help streamline your regimen, making it easier to remember to take your medicines and reduce complexity.
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Sometimes, a review can identify opportunities to use more cost-effective options or reduce unnecessary medications, saving you money. [5]
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Receive tailored advice on medication storage, how to use devices like inhalers or blood glucose monitors, and practical tips for remembering your doses. [6]
Frequently Asked Questions about Medication Reviews
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Generally, you may be eligible for a Home Medicines Review if you are living in the community and are at risk of, or experiencing, medication-related problems, especially if you take multiple medications (typically five or more), have recently been discharged from hospital, or have significant changes to your medication regimen [1]. MedsChecks are more broadly available. Your GP can assess your eligibility and provide a referral for an HMR [1].
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Home Medicines Reviews (HMRs) and MedsChecks are generally subsidised by the Australian Government, meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients [1,2].
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For a Home Medicines Review (HMR), you will need a referral from your GP [1]. Discuss your interest in an HMR with your doctor, and they can provide the necessary referral to one of our accredited pharmacists. For a MedsCheck, simply speak to one of our friendly pharmacists in-store or call us to book an appointment.
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Please bring all your current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements) in their original packaging. It's also helpful to bring a list of any concerns or questions you have about your medicines.
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The duration can vary depending on the complexity of your medication regimen. A MedsCheck might take 20-30 minutes, while a Home Medicines Review is more comprehensive and can take longer.
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For a Home Medicines Review, our pharmacist will prepare a detailed report for your GP, outlining recommendations and a proposed medication management plan [1]. You'll then have a follow-up appointment with your GP to discuss these recommendations [1]. For a MedsCheck, you'll receive immediate, actionable advice and a summary of the discussion.
At Northpharm, we're here to bridge any distance in your medication journey and help you reach further towards optimal health. Speak to our friendly team today to learn more about how a Medication Review can benefit you.
+ Find your local Northpharm pharmacy that offers a Medication Review.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The content on this webpage reflects information published by the Australian Government or the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, with numbered sources referenced throughout. For the full list of references in this content, together with relevant links, please see below.
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Department of Health and Aged Care, MedsCheck and Diabetes MedsCheck
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, Medication Safety.
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, The Opioid Analgesic Stewardship in Acute Pain Clinical Care Standard.
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, PSA Professional Practice Standards.
Department of Health and Aged Care, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Explained.
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Quality Care Pharmacy Program.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Good health should be accessible to everyone. That's why we've made blood pressure monitoring available, removing barriers and making it simple for you to take this crucial step in managing your well-being.
What is Blood Pressure Monitoring?
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body [1]. It's measured in two numbers:
Systolic pressure (the top number): This indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
Diastolic pressure (the bottom number): This indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
A blood pressure reading is expressed as, for example, 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).
Blood pressure monitoring involves using a specialised device, typically an automatic upper arm cuff, to measure these two pressures. Our trained pharmacy staff will ensure the correct technique is used for an accurate reading.
Why is Blood Pressure Monitoring Important?
Blood pressure monitoring is crucial because high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often has no obvious symptoms [2]. This means you can have it without knowing, making it a "silent killer” [2].
If left unmanaged, high blood pressure can put extra strain on your arteries and heart, significantly increasing your risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease or vision loss [1].
Regular checks allow for:
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Catching high blood pressure early means you can start managing it before it causes significant damage.
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If you're already diagnosed with hypertension, monitoring helps you and your doctor assess the effectiveness of your treatment plan and make necessary adjustments.
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If your readings are consistently high, our pharmacists can guide you on when to consult your doctor for further evaluation and management.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blood Pressure Monitoring
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If you're over 18, it's generally recommended to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years [3]. If you have risk factors for heart disease, or have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, your doctor may advise more frequent checks.
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The top number (systolic) measures the pressure when your heart beats, and the bottom number (diastolic) measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats [1].
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Generally, a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure (hypertension) in a clinical setting [4]. However, your doctor will determine what's healthy for you based on your individual circumstances. Home readings often have a slightly lower threshold for hypertension (e.g., ≥135/85 mmHg) [4].
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Yes, it's normal for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day due to factors like stress, physical activity, caffeine intake, and even simply being in a doctor's office ("white coat hypertension") [5]. This is why consistent monitoring over time provides a more accurate picture.
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Lifestyle changes are often the first line of defence. These can include:
Eating a healthy, low-salt diet
Regular physical activity
Maintaining a healthy weight
Limiting alcohol intake
Quitting smoking
Managing stress [1]
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Home blood pressure monitoring can be a valuable tool, especially if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure [6]. It provides a more comprehensive view of your blood pressure over time and can help identify "masked hypertension" (when your blood pressure is normal in a clinic but high at home) [6]. Always discuss home monitoring with your doctor or pharmacist.
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If your blood pressure is suddenly higher than 180/120 mmHg, wait at least one minute and test again. If it's still very high, contact your doctor immediately. If you experience readings this high along with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, vision changes, difficulty speaking, confusion, dizziness, or vomiting, call emergency services immediately [7].
+ Find your local Northpharm pharmacy that offers Blood Pressure Monitoring.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The content on this webpage reflects information published by the Australian Government or the National Heart Foundation of Australia, with numbered sources referenced throughout. For the full list of references in this content, together with relevant links, please see below.
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Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Blood pressure.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. High blood pressure.
National Heart Foundation of Australia. Blood pressure checks.
National Heart Foundation of Australia. Blood pressure measurements.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. What is blood pressure and how is it measured?.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Monitoring blood pressure at home.
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. Hypertensive crisis.
National Diabetes Services Scheme
Managing diabetes can be a significant part of your daily life, and at Northpharm, we're here to make it more accessible.
We are proud that some of our pharmacies are accredited Access Points for the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), providing essential support and subsidised products to Australians living with diabetes.
What is the NDSS?
The NDSS is an initiative of the Australian Government, administered by Diabetes Australia. It's designed to help people living with diabetes better understand and self-manage their condition. The NDSS provides timely, reliable, and affordable access to a range of subsidised diabetes products and offers valuable information and support services.
Essentially, it aims to reduce the financial burden of living with diabetes and empower individuals with the tools and knowledge they need for effective self-management.
How we can help
As an NDSS Access Point, Northpharm pharmacies play a crucial role in supporting you on your diabetes journey.
Our dedicated team can assist you with:
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We provide direct access to a range of essential diabetes products at subsidised prices, including:
Blood glucose test strips
Urine test strips
Insulin syringes and pen needles
Insulin pump consumables (where applicable)
Hypoglycaemia treatment products
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If you're not yet registered with the NDSS, we can guide you through the process and help you complete the necessary forms. Registration is free and only needs to be done once.
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Our pharmacists are trained to provide comprehensive information on various diabetes products, including how to use blood glucose monitors and insulin delivery devices effectively. We can demonstrate their use and help you choose the right tools for your needs.
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We can conduct a Diabetes MedsCheck to review your medications, ensure they are working effectively, and help you understand your diabetes management plan.
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Our pharmacists can offer personalised advice on various aspects of diabetes management, including:
Healthy eating and dietary choices
Physical activity and exercise
Weight management strategies
Understanding blood glucose levels and their implications
General health and wellbeing advice related to diabetes
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Where appropriate, we can refer you to other healthcare professionals, such as Credentialled Diabetes Educators or dietitians, for specialised support and education.
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We can assist with the safe disposal of used sharps (needles and lancets) to ensure community safety.
Frequently Asked Questions about the NDSS
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The NDSS is open to all Australians diagnosed with diabetes who hold or are eligible to hold a Medicare card and live in Australia. In some cases, visitors to Australia may also be eligible through a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement.
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You can register for the NDSS through your doctor or a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE). You can also download a registration form from the NDSS website. Your Health Pharmacy can provide you with information and assistance in completing the form.
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No, you do not need a prescription from a doctor to purchase products through the NDSS. However, for some products, like blood glucose test strips for people with type 2 diabetes not using insulin, an authorisation from your health professional may be required after an initial period.
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The NDSS provides subsidised access to blood glucose test strips, urine test strips, insulin syringes and pen needles, and insulin pump consumables. It's important to note that medications, including insulin, are generally subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), not the NDSS.
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Absolutely! The NDSS offers a range of free self-management education and support programs, including workshops and comprehensive education on topics like blood glucose monitoring, healthy eating, and emotional wellbeing. You can also contact the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 for information and support.
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Yes, if you are registered with the NDSS, you can access the "My NDSS portal" on the NDSS website. This allows you to view and update your contact details, check your eligibility for products, and see your purchase history.
If you have any further questions about the National Diabetes Services Scheme or how Northpharm can assist you, please don't hesitate to speak to one of our friendly pharmacists. We're here to help you live well with diabetes.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Modern health care, local support
If you have any questions or need support, our team is here to guide you in the right direction.