25 Sep 2013

Specialist pharmacists' roles increase

12:10 am on 25 September 2013

Some pharmacists are now able to prescribe medication, check laboratory tests and vaccinate patients.

Fourteen pharmacists have received the specialist training and another seven will complete their training by the end of the year.

Some work for pharmacies while others are part of a hospital or district health board.

Health Minister Tony Ryall says while the specialist pharmacists won't have supervision, they will still be required to act under the same legislation and guidelines as their other colleagues.