Staged Supply

Overview

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists provide Staged Supply to support safe and appropriate use of certain medicines. This service involves supplying medication in smaller, regular quantities rather than all at once, helping improve safety, adherence, and oversight.

Staged supply is available at The Pharmacy on Bunda, The Pharmacy on Northbourne, and The Pharmacy on Franklin, and is commonly used for medicines that require closer monitoring.

Service Restrictions

If you have been referred for staged supply by your healthcare provider, our pharmacists must follow the directions provided on the script. Requests for early pick-ups, additional tablets, or no longer getting staged supply must be approved by your doctor.

What Is Staged Supply?

Staged supply is when a medication is supplied at regular intervals over a set period (such as daily, weekly, or fortnightly), rather than being supplied a full month at one time.

This approach may be used when:

• There is a need to support safe medicine use

• Closer monitoring of therapy is required

• There is a risk of misuse or harm

• Regular pharmacist interaction is beneficial

Staged supply is typically arranged in collaboration with your prescriber and pharmacist.

Why Staged Supply Matters

Staged supply can help:

• Improve medication adherence

• Reduce the risk of medication misuse or overdose

• Provide regular opportunities for clinical review and support

• Support safe use of medicines that require monitoring

It is an important tool in managing certain medications safely within the community.

How Our Pharmacists Can Help

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists will:

• Work with your prescriber to implement a staged supply plan

• Dispense your medication according to the agreed schedule

• Provide ongoing support and monitoring

• Address any concerns or issues as they arise

• Maintain accurate records of supply

Providing structured medicine supply and ongoing patient support is consistent with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia Professional Practice Standards (PSA, 2017).

Who This Service Is Suitable For

Staged supply may be appropriate if:

• Your prescriber has recommended instalment dispensing

• You are taking medicines that require closer monitoring

• There are concerns about safe or consistent use

• You would benefit from regular pharmacist support

Our pharmacists will work with you and your prescriber to ensure the arrangement is suitable.

What to Expect at The Pharmacy Network

Your medication will be supplied in smaller quantities at regular intervals, such as daily or weekly, depending on your plan.

You will attend the pharmacy at agreed times to collect your medication, allowing our pharmacists to provide ongoing support and ensure everything is on track.

If you have been referred for staged supply by your healthcare provider, our pharmacists must follow the directions provided on the script. Requests for early pick-ups, additional tablets, or no longer getting staged supply must be approved by your doctor.

When Additional Support Is Needed

If there are any concerns about your treatment, our pharmacists may liaise with your prescriber to review your plan.

This ensures your medication remains safe, effective, and appropriate for your needs.

Supporting Safe Medication Use

If you’re looking for staged supply pharmacy services or support with medication management, our pharmacists at The Pharmacy Network are here to help.

Visit The Pharmacy on Bunda, The Pharmacy on Northbourne, or The Pharmacy on Franklin for professional, supportive care.

References

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. (2017). Professional Practice Standards.