Territorians urged to think pharmacy first for everyday health concerns

18 Aug 2026

Community pharmacists can help ease pressure on the Northern Territory’s health system by providing advice and treatment for a range of everyday health conditions and minor illnesses, helping people avoid unnecessary visits to emergency departments.

With NT emergency departments continuing to face pressure from patients requiring urgent and complex care, COTA NT is encouraging Territorians to consider whether their local community pharmacy may be able to help with less serious health concerns.

Community pharmacists are highly trained health professionals who can provide advice, treatment and, where appropriate, referrals for a range of common health conditions. They can also provide vaccinations and advice about managing symptoms and preventing illness.

For older Territorians in particular, having convenient access to a trusted local health professional can make it easier to seek advice early, before a minor health concern becomes more serious.

COTA NT CEO Sue Shearer said community pharmacies are an important part of the Territory’s primary healthcare system.

“Our hospitals and emergency departments need to be available for people who are seriously ill or injured. Where a health concern can be safely managed in the community, it makes sense to consider the most appropriate service first,” Ms Shearer said. “For many Territorians, their local pharmacist is an accessible and familiar healthcare professional who can provide advice, treatment or help them understand where they should go next.

“This is particularly important in the Northern Territory, where access to GPs and other health services can be challenging, particularly for people living in regional, remote and very remote communities.”

Community pharmacies can provide advice and treatment for a range of minor health concerns, as well as support with medicines, vaccinations and other aspects of preventative healthcare.

Territorians are encouraged to seek advice early when they develop symptoms that could indicate a more serious illness. Pharmacists can help identify when a condition requires further medical assessment and refer patients to a GP, urgent care service or emergency department when necessary.

“Thinking pharmacy first doesn’t mean avoiding medical care when it is needed,” Ms Shearer said.

“It means knowing what services are available and choosing the right service for the health issue you are experiencing. If you have a serious or life-threatening illness or injury, you should always seek urgent medical attention. But for everyday health concerns, your local pharmacy may be a good place to start.”

With the Northern Territory entering the Wet, Territorians are also encouraged to speak with their pharmacist about vaccinations and ways to protect themselves and their families from seasonal illnesses.

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Media contact: Sue Shearer, CEO COTA NT 08 8941 1004

To find your nearest pharmacy and the range of services available, use Find a Pharmacy https://findapharmacy.com.au/.