"In many cases, your pharmacist is the healthcare professional closest to you," Mr Seymour said. We've introduced 12-month prescriptions for stable patients, and given pharmacists prescribing rights for the first time. "Every condition will include a clear protocol for when patients need to be referred to a GP or specialist," says Mr Seymour. Anything outside those limits, or any new diagnosis, goes straight back to the patient's GP.” "ACT is going to unlock it, so that when you're unwell, your pharmacist is the first stop.