Writing a Prescription

Question 1

Who regulates Optometrist’s prescribing rights?

Answer 1

Optometry Board of Australia (OBA)

Question 2

What schedules of medications are in the optometric scope?

Answer 2

S2: Pharmacy Only - S4: Prescription Only

S8: Controlled Drugs (rare in optometry)

Question 3

What are the 4 QUM instructions?

Answer 3

1. Choose medicines only when necessary (follow therapeutic guidelines)
2. Consider patient-specific factors and alternatives.
3. Monitor effectiveness, prevent misuse.
4. Report adverse events to the TGA

Question 4

What difference between private and PBS prescription?

Answer 4

Private: More flexible with treatment options but patient bears full cost.

PBS: Requires specific formats, eligibility, sometimes authority codes.

Question 5

What are the PBS categories?

Answer 5

Unrestricted
Restricted
Authority required
Authority required (STREAMLINED)

Question 6

What is the Closing the Gap PBS Co-payment?

Answer 6

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients receive subsidized or free medications. (requires registration via HPOS)

Question 7

What is the key information you need to tell patients when prescribing? (Patient education)

Answer 7

How to use medication, side effects, importance of adherence.

Question 8

How can pharmacists provide patients with supports with their prescription?

Answer 8

Counselling, dispensing, checking adherence, monitoring side effects.

Collaborate especially in complex care like:

Provide safer alternatives or catch contraindications.