What skin conditions does this service cover?
This service covers shingles (herpes zoster), impetigo (school sores), and flare-ups of mild plaque psoriasis you've already been diagnosed with. It's for mild, uncomplicated cases - not widespread, severe, or first-time presentations that haven't yet been assessed by a GP. Under the Victorian Government's Chemist Care Now program, our pharmacists can assess your skin condition and, where appropriate, recommend or prescribe treatment without you needing to see a GP first.
Do I need a referral for this consult?
No. Under the Victorian Government's Chemist Care Now program, our pharmacists can assess and, where appropriate, treat mild shingles, impetigo, and mild plaque psoriasis flare-ups directly - no GP visit or referral needed.
Am I eligible for a minor skin conditions consult?
Generally, you'll need a mild, uncomplicated case of shingles, impetigo, or a psoriasis flare-up you've already been diagnosed with, limited to a small area of skin, with no signs of a more serious infection. Your pharmacist will ask you some questions during the consult to check whether it's safe and appropriate for them to help, or whether you should see a GP.
What happens during the consultation?
Your pharmacist will take you into a private, fully equipped consultation room, explain how the service works, and ask for your consent before going ahead. They'll take a brief medical history, ask about your skin condition - when it started and how it's affecting you - and discuss the most suitable options with you. If it's appropriate, they can prescribe treatment on the spot and explain how to use it safely. If not, they'll explain why and help you arrange a GP appointment. With your consent, they can also share details of your visit with your GP or other healthcare providers.
What do I need to bring?
You don't need a Medicare card to access this service, but it's helpful to bring one if you have it, along with any concession card you hold. It's also useful to bring details of any other medications you're currently taking, so your pharmacist has the full picture.
Will I see a pharmacist in a private room?
Yes. Every consultation takes place in a private, fully equipped consultation room, so you can show your pharmacist the affected area and talk it through somewhere quiet and confidential.
Will my GP know about this visit?
Only if you'd like them to. With your consent, your pharmacist can share details of your consultation with your GP or other healthcare providers, so everyone involved in your care has the full picture. You can still receive treatment even if you'd prefer not to share this information.
Will this help with a first episode of psoriasis, or widespread symptoms?
This service is designed for flare-ups of mild plaque psoriasis you've already been diagnosed with, limited to a small area of skin. If it's your first time experiencing symptoms, or they're widespread or severe, your pharmacist will likely recommend a GP visit so it can be properly investigated and managed.
How much does it cost?
For eligible patients, the pharmacist consultation under Chemist Care Now is provided at no cost. Any medicine recommended or supplied isn't subsidised under this program, so you'll pay the full price - which may be more than you'd pay with a GP prescription, and can vary between pharmacies. These costs also don't count towards your PBS Safety Net. Your pharmacist will confirm eligibility and any costs before proceeding.
Do I need to book?
No booking needed. Just walk in at Malvern Road or Burke Road. Coming soon to High Street and Wattletree Road. See all
Melbourne locations.
What if I'm not eligible for treatment this way?
If pharmacist treatment isn't appropriate - for example if your symptoms are widespread, come with signs of a more serious infection, or it's a first-time diagnosis - your pharmacist will explain why and refer you to a GP for further care.
Which locations offer this?
Chemist Care Now consultations are currently available at Malvern Road and Burke Road, walk-in only. They are coming soon to High Street and Wattletree Road.
Will I get a follow-up health check?
Your pharmacist may arrange a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress, especially if you've been prescribed treatment - for example, to check your skin condition has settled as expected, or to recommend a GP visit for a more thorough check. They'll let you know at the end of your consult if anything further is recommended.