Picking up your HIV medications could become easier for you by accessing the Enhanced Medication Access (EMA). This is a new scheme in New South Wales which supports eligible people to pick up meds from home, work or community pharmacies. It is available in metro and regional NSW.
What is the EMA Scheme?
The Scheme allows people with HIV living in NSW who are eligible to have up to 4 months supply of HIV medication dispensed and delivered without the need to go to a hospital pharmacy.
You will need to be able to pay for the supply of medication in advance using a debit or credit card before the medications are sent.
HIV medication will be mailed to your preferred address after payment has been received at the Albion Street Pharmacy. In some circumstances, there may be a charge for handling and delivery.
Who can enrol?
You can enrol in the scheme if you are:
- A resident of NSW
- Eligible for Medicare
- Your doctor agrees that you are clinically stable on HIV medication and any side effects are mild or well managed
- You are able to pay by credit or debit card for your supply of medication plus postage
- You have an address the medication can be delivered to (Monday to Friday). This can be your home or work. It can also be one of a number of participating pharmacies which are open evenings and weekends. Where pick-up is from a community pharmacy, no postage and handling will be charged
How do I enrol in the EMA Scheme?
- If you meet the eligibility criteria, your prescribing doctor can enrol you in the program.
- There are two forms to complete to enrol: one for your doctor and one for you. Both forms must be sent by mail to the ASC pharmacy together with your prescription.
At your next appointment, discuss your eligibility with your HIV prescriber. If you are eligible, they will complete the Prescribers Enrolment Form.
You will need to complete the Patient Enrolment Form.
Further information about what happens after you enrol and all the forms are available on the ASHM website.