News and Alerts

For your convenience, this section includes a summary of this month's important PBS changes.

For the full Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits, go to the PBS website at http://www.pbs.gov.au/ where you can search the schedule by drug name.

For Highly Specialised Drugs (HSD) items (CAR and non-CAR), refer to the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits as well as Services Australia to confirm whether the PBS item code for a HSD is eligible to be dispensed and claimed by your pharmacy type.

  • 1 August 2025: Late notice: 1 August 2025 Omalizumab substitution

    In the 1 August 2025 PBS data, new listings were added for omalizumab 75 mg/0.5 mL injection, 0.5 mL pen device, and were marked as substitutable with the equivalent existing listings for omalizumab 75 mg/0.5 mL injection, 0.5 mL syringe

    An error was included where two of the new item codes were assigned a substitution group that linked the existing Private Hospital program (HS) item code with the new Public Hospital program (HB) item code, and vice versa:

    10110D (HS) equivalence group with 14949T (HB)

    10118M (HB) equivalence group with 14904K (HS)

    The correct substitution group should be:

    10110D (HS) equivalence group with 14904K (HS)

    10118M (HB) equivalence group with 14949T (HB)

    The substitution groups have been set up correctly in Fred Dispense and Fred Dispense Plus for 1 August 2025. No further action is required.

    Fred does not anticipate any issues for Fred Dispense or Fred Dispense Plus users in August 2025, however, Services Australia have provided some advice below in the event of rejections:

    • From 1-31 August 2025, Approved Suppliers may get a rejection in PBS Online Claiming for claims where the date of prescribing is prior 1 August, for the existing omalizumab item and substituting to the new item code.

      • R738 - The item provided was not a PBS benefit as at the date of prescribing.

    • Services Australia will monitor and honour eligible PBS claims with this rejection with a separate payment. No further action is required.

    • PBS Claims for scripts written from 1 August 2025, Approved Suppliers to follow the usual reason code fix instructions

  • 1 August 2025: PBS Changes - August 2025
  • 1 August 2025: PBS Listing Update for Relaban (Rivaroxaban) Capsules – August 2025

    The Relaban brand of rivaroxaban has been incorrectly listed as tablets instead of capsules in the August 2025 PBS Schedule.

    An erratum has been issued to allow dispensing of Relaban rivaroxaban capsules (15 mg and 20 mg) under the existing tablet item codes:

    2691P, 13463N, 13462M, and 2268J

    The 1 August Fred Dispense/Dispense Plus Drug Update will include these listings for the capsules, enabling claims under the above item codes.

    Relaban will be correctly listed with new item codes and in capsule form in the 1 September 2025 PBS Schedule update.

    For full details, please visit the PBS website:

    https://www.pbs.gov.au/info/news/2025/08/pbs-website-update-1-august-2025

  • 25 July 2025: End of Remote Access Support for Old Mobility Devices1

    Due to increasing security risks, we have ended remote access support for the legacy Motorola and Datalogic Windows-based mobility guns. These devices officially reached end of service life in February 2021. Although we have continued to support them well beyond that date, they are no longer viable for secure remote troubleshooting.

    The old mobility devices can no longer be guaranteed to function reliably or securely in today’s environment. Moving forward, we can provide self-help documentation and phone support only.

    While we’ll continue to assist where possible, we strongly recommend upgrading to a newer mobility device.

    New Mobility Devices

    The new Fred Mobility devices run on an Android platform and have a modern touchscreen interface.

    Contact your local Fred representative or sales@fred.com.au if you’d like to discuss upgrading to a new device.

  • 1 July 2025: Fee changes applicable from 1 July 2025

    The following fees, patient contributions, and Safety Net thresholds apply from 1 July 2025 and are included, where applicable, in prices published in the Schedule.

    Fee TypeFee
    Dispensing FeesReady-prepared$8.88
    Dangerous drug fee$5.50
    Extemporaneously-prepared$10.92
    Allowable additional patient charge*$3.45
    Additional Fees (for safety net prices)Ready-prepared$1.48
    Extemporaneously-prepared$1.91
    Patient Co-paymentsGeneral$31.60
    Concessional$7.70
    Safety Net ThresholdsGeneral$1694.00
    Concessional$277.20
    Safety Net Card Issue Fee $12.38

    * The allowable additional patient charge is a discretionary charge to general patients if a pharmaceutical item has a dispensed price for maximum quantity less than the general patient co-payment. The pharmacist may charge general patients the allowable additional fee but the fee cannot take the cost of the prescription above the general patient co-payment for the medicine. This fee does not count towards the Safety Net threshold.

    Tier 1For a maximum quantity of a listed brand with a price to pharmacists less than $100$4.91 per dispense*
    Tier 2For a maximum quantity of a listed brand with a price to pharmacists from $100 to $2,000$4.91, plus 5% of the amount by which the price to pharmacists exceeds $100, per dispense*
    Tier 3For a maximum quantity of a listed brand with a price to pharmacists more than $2,000$99.91 per dispense*

    * There is no change to the basis of the payment of the total mark-up / AHI (i.e. – in the table above, per dispense means per listed PBS item maximum quantity (MQ) supplied. Fee is calculated from the per pack price with AHI applied for maximum quantity, proportionate to the number of packs required for maximum quantity, and will be adjusted if less or more than the maximum quantity is supplied).

    Fee TypeFee
    Section 90 Community Pharmacy (incl. section 92 approved practitioners)Ready Prepared Dispensing Fee$8.88
    Preparation Fee$91.23
    Distribution Fee$30.71
    Diluent Fee$6.08
    Section 94 Approved Private Hospital AuthorityReady Prepared Dispensing Fee$8.88
    Preparation Fee$91.23
    Distribution Fee$30.71
    Diluent Fee$6.08
  • 23 June 2025: Catch up with the Fred Team this August in Sydney and Perth
  • 3 June 2025: Say hello to AIFred...our new customer service chatbot

    Your new Fred virtual assistant is now live and ready to help you get quick answers, troubleshoot issues, and guide you to the right place.

    • Access support anytime, anywhere, even outside of regular business hours.

    • Get immediate answers to your queries without waiting in a queue.

    • Benefit from help tailored to your needs or routing to the correct support team.

    Visit the Fred Help Portal to chat with AIFred today!

  • 1 June 2025: PBS Changes - June 2025
  • 26 May 2025: Coming Soon...Your Fred Virtual Assistant

    We are thrilled to announce a significant enhancement to your customer service experience. Starting 3 June 2025, we will be replacing our live chat service with a new, advanced messaging chatbot.

    Why the Change?

    Our new messaging chatbot is designed to provide you with faster, more efficient, and round-the-clock support. This upgrade will be:

    • Convenient: Access support anytime, anywhere, even outside of regular business hours.

    • Fast: Get immediate answers to your queries without waiting in a queue.

    • Personalised: Benefit from help tailored to your needs or routing to the correct support team.

    Visit the Fred Help Portal from 3 June to start using the chatbot.

  • 26 May 2025: Update to Continued Dispensing Arrangements - Emergency Measures

    From 23 May 2025 to 30 June 2025, a temporary PBS Continued Dispensing Emergency Measure has been put in place to support people affected by the flooding disaster in New South Wales to continue to access their PBS subsidised medicines.

    This PBS Continued Dispensing Emergency Measure will support access to a wider range of PBS medicines than under ongoing Continued Dispensing arrangements, covering most medicines on the General Schedule of the PBS. For further information, please see the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Continued Dispensing Arrangements webpage.

    The 1 June 2025 Fred Dispense Plus drug file has been updated with the expanded list. When dispensing eligible authority items, please remember to use 123 as the authority number and enter A2025CD in the steamlined code/phone approval number field.

    For continued dispensing related queries please refer to the link above. If you have any other questions, refer to Dispense a Continued Dispensing Supply or contact Fred Help.

  • 22 May 2025: Upgrade to a modern Windows 11 device before EOFY

    With Windows 10 support ending later this year, now is the ideal time to transition to modern Windows 11 devices. If your pharmacy’s PCs are over three years old and out of warranty, upgrading will ensure optimal security and reliability.

    Fred has all the hardware solutions you need, ready for delivery before June 30. Please consult your accountant about any potential tax incentives available with the instant asset write-off .

    To further discuss the upgrade options for your pharmacy please contact your local Fred representative or email sales@fred.com.au.

  • 22 May 2025: Changes in Cautionary Ancillary Labels

    The Pharmaceutical Society Australia has made some revisions to cautionary ancillary labels.

    CAL Label 18 and CAL I have been merged, and an updated CAL 18 has been introduced.

    Old CAL 18 and CAL I Revised CAL 18

    CAL 13 has been reworded.

    Old CAL 13 New CAL 13

    These changes will be applied in Fred Dispense Plus warnings and sigs from the June 2025 update. For further information, please see the below:

    https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/goodbye-cal-i-hello-expanded-cal-18/

    https://www.australianpharmacist.com.au/new-cal-medicine-storage-guidance/

  • 22 May 2025: End of financial year and stocktaking help

    It's nearly time for End of Financial Year Reporting and Stocktaking. To assist you with these processes, refer to the following Fred Office Plus resources:

  • 1 May 2025: PBS Changes - May 2025
  • 9 April 2025: Competition - Win an iPad!

    Join the OPIOID SAFETY TOOLKIT PROJECT to enter the draw.

    Community pharmacies using Fred Dispense Plus can support safer and more effective use of opioid pain medicines via a unique integration with GoShare Healthcare.

    Over 9,000 patients have already received access to the Opioid Safety Toolkit, delivered automatically by SMS via the Fred Dispense Plus AppBar.

    To enter the draw for a Wifi 64gig iPAD your pharmacy must complete the following by 5 May 2025.

    1. Register your pharmacy on the PSA website .

    2. Receive your Healthily GoShare activation email.

    3. Add the GoShare Opioid Safety Toolkit app to your Fred Dispense Plus AppBar.

    1. Eligibility:

    • Entry is open to individuals employed at, and representing an Australian pharmacy.

    • Only one entry per pharmacy is permitted.

    • Pharmacies must use Fred Dispense Plus as their pharmacy dispensing system.

    2. Entry method:

    • Pharmacies will automatically be entered into the draw when:

      • The pharmacy has agreed to participate in the Opioid Safety Toolkit project by registering at PSA and/or participating in a Fred IT/Healthily demo of the GoShare Opioid Safety Toolkit app.

      • The pharmacy is activated for Healthily GoShare confirmed via receipt of the Healthily GoShare activation email.

      • The pharmacy has added the GoShare Opioid Safety Toolkit app to their Fred Dispense Plus AppBar.

    3. Withdrawing from the competition:

    • Pharmacies are entered into the prize draw once they have met the above Eligibility and Entry method criteria.

    • Pharmacies who wish to withdraw from the competition can do so by notifying the competition administrator.

    4. Selecting the winning pharmacy:

    • All eligible pharmacies have an equal chance of winning. The winning pharmacy will be selected randomly from a pool of all eligible Pharmacies.

    5. Prize:

    • The prize for the competition is a new iPad (valued at $599)

    • The prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or other items.

    6. Winner Notification:

    • Winners will be notified via email within one month of the competition closing date.

    • The competition closes on 5 May 2025.

    7. Privacy:

    • The winner of the iPad prize may be publicly disclosed for promotional purposes.

    • Other Competition entrant details will not be publicly disclosed.

    8. Personal information collected will be used solely for the purpose of administering the competition and will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

    9. Disqualification:

    • Any entry that does not comply with these Terms and Conditions will be disqualified.

    • The organiser reserves the right to disqualify any entrant who is found to have tampered with the entry process or engaged in any unlawful or improper conduct.

    10. Liability:

    • The organiser is not responsible for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any entrant in connection with the competition or prize.

    11, Publicity rights:

    • By participating in the competition, participants agree to allow the organiser to use details of the competition for promotion purposes without additional compensation, unless prohibited by law.

  • 9 April 2025: Shingrix Clinical Prompts

    New in your upcoming Fred Dispense Plus release

    Shingrix Clinical Prompts will identify patients of your pharmacy who are eligible for the National Immunisation Program (NIP) funded Shingles vaccination.

    By identifying at risk patients your pharmacy has an opportunity to discuss, and administer where appropriate the Shingrix vaccine. The prompts aim to assist you to:

    • Improve health awareness of Shingles in the community

    • Increase vaccination rates

    • Reduce the possibility of at-risk groups contracting Shingles

    The first time you open Fred Dispense Plus Release 38 you will see a prompt for the Shingles Clinical Support Program. Selecting Yes will enable the feature, and allow you to adjust the program settings.

    To learn more about the workflow and settings, see Clinical Support Program

  • 1 April 2025: PBS Changes - April 2025
  • 3 March 2025: Yaz and Yasmin PBS Listed from 1 March 2025

    Yaz and Yasmin are listed on PBS from 1st March 2025. Patients will need to obtain a new prescription from their prescribers to access the PBS subsidised price.

    Please see PBS news https://www.pbs.gov.au/info/news/2025/03/pbs-item-supply-for-formerly-private_prescription-items

  • 1 March 2025: PBS Changes - March 2025
  • 20 February 2025 See you at APP!

    Come visit the Fred and MedView teams at APP next month to see what’s new in the world of pharmacy IT. Discover new partner integrations and offers. Get hands-on with MedView Digital Baskets. If you’re interested in improving your pharmacy’s efficiency, we’ve got the IT innovations to help.

    Find us on stands 124-127 inside the main exhibition hall.

    Thu 20 Mar5.30pm - 8.30pmWelcome Reception
    Fri 21 Mar9.00am - 6.30pmTrade Exhibition
    Fri 21 Mar5.30pm - 6.30pmWind down at APP’s inaugural ‘Happy Hour' straight after the Conference Sessions conclude
    Sat 22 Mar9.00am - 4.00pmTrade Exhibition

    Digital Health: The next 5 years for pharmacy

    Thursday 20 March | 2.00-2.45pm | Arena 1A

    The May 2023 federal budget revealed a $1.1 billion investment to update the digital health infrastructure and to transform My Health Record into a more data-rich platform. With pharmacists expanding their roles, this session will outline how this digital investment can enhance health outcomes for Australians. It will explore the implications for pharmacists with an upgraded My Health Record, and how the evolving digital medication platforms seek to further improve medication safety.

    Moderator: Paul Naismith - Founder and CEO, Fred IT Group

    Panellists:

    • Daniel McCabe - First Assistant Secretary Medicare Benefits and Digital Health, Australian Government Department of Health

    • Paul Creech - Chief Program Officer, Australian Digital Health Agency

    • Regina Cowie - Partnerships Manager eHealth, Fred IT Group.

     
  • 6 February 2025: Update to Continued Dispensing Arrangements – Emergency Measures

    From 4 February 2025 to 31 March 2025, a temporary PBS Continued Dispensing Emergency Measure has been put in place to support people affected by the flooding disaster in Far North Queensland to continue to access their PBS subsidised medicines.

    This PBS Continued Dispensing Emergency Measure will support access to a wider range of PBS medicines than under ongoing Continued Dispensing arrangements, covering most medicines on the General Schedule of the PBS. For further information, please see the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Continued Dispensing Arrangements webpage.

    The February Fred Dispense Plus drug file has been updated with the expanded list. When dispensing eligible authority items, please remember to use 123 as the authority number and enter ‘A2022CD’ in the phone approval number section.

    For continued dispensing related queries please refer to the link above. If you have any other questions, refer to Dispense a Continued Dispensing Supply or contact Fred Help.

  • 1 February 2025: PBS Changes - February 2025
  • 17 January 2025: Disabling or re-enabling electronic prescriptions

    In the event of potential clinical risks with dispensing and supplying an ePrescription, you are reminded that you can disable an ePrescription in Fred Dispense Plus.

    This is particularly important if the patient is a doctor shopper or you suspect the prescription may be fraudulent.

    For step-by-step instructions, see Disable or re-enable an ePrescription.

  • 6 January 2025: PBS Changes - January 2025
  • 6 January 2025: Fee Changes From 1 January 2025

    Fees are mostly remaining the same except for the General Safety Net Threshold.

    As part of the 8CPA agreement, there will be a 1- year freeze on PBS copayments for General Patients, and up to a 5-year freeze for concession patients.

    Category

    Fees

    2024

    From
    1 January 2025

    Dispensing fees

    Allowable additional
    patient charge

    $3.45

    $3.45

    Patient co-payment

    General

    Concessional

    $31.60

    $7.70

    $31.60

    $7.70

    Safety Net threshold

    General

    Concessional

    $1647.90

    $277.20

    $1694.00

    $277.20

    Copayment discounting will also be phased out with the following discounting rules to take effect from 1 January 2025.

      Category 2024 From
    1 January 2025
    Allowable discount General $1.00 $0.10
    Concessional $1.00 $0.80
  • 6 January 2025: Freeze on PBS patient co-payments and removal of allowable discount

    What is happening?

    Currently both general and concessional PBS co-payments are indexed on 1 January each year, in line with the Consumer Price Index.

    In 2024, the co-payments were $31.60 for general patients and $7.70 for concessional patients.

    From 1 January 2025, the government will introduce:

    • a 1-year freeze on indexation for PBS co-payments for general patients

    • a 5-year freeze on indexation for PBS co-payments for concessional patients.

    Currently, if the total cost of a PBS medicine is above a patient’s co-payment, pharmacists can reduce the co-payment for that patient by applying an allowable discount, up to an amount of $1, for each supply.

    From 1 January 2025, the allowable discount (aka ‘$1 discount’) will be phased out (over 1 or 5 years) while annual increases to the general and concessional PBS co-payments are frozen.

    The discount will decrease by the amount of indexation that would have otherwise applied to the general or concessional patient PBS co-payment, as relevant, until it reaches zero.

    What will this look like for patients?

    • For general patients, the general PBS co-payment for the 2025 calendar year will remain at the level applying in 2024 – that is, a maximum of $31.60 for PBS medicines will be payable.

      From 1 January 2026 onwards, the PBS co-payment will again be annually indexed in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

    • For concessional patients, from 1 January 2025 the concessional PBS co-payment will remain at the level applicable for 2024 for the next five calendar years – that is, a maximum of $7.70 for PBS medicines will be payable.

  • 18 December 2024: End of Year process
  • 18 December 2024: Fred Help Christmas and New Year Hours

    Fred Help will be available during Christmas and New Year.

    Happy Holidays! We suggest that you print out this calendar and display it prominently in your dispensary during the festive season. This will ensure that all of your staff are aware of the hours they can contact us, should they require support.

    Please refer to the Fred Service Summary for reference.

    DATE

    FRED HELP OFFICE HOURS (AEDT)

    Monday 23 December 2024

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Tuesday 24 December 2024 (Christmas Eve)

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Thursday 26 December 2024 (Boxing Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Friday 27 December 2024

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Saturday 28 December 2024

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    Sunday 29 December 2024

    8:00 AM –6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Monday 30 December 2024

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Tuesday 31 December 2024

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Wednesday 1 January 2025 (New Year's Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    From Thursday  2 January 2025

    Normal support hours
  • 18 December 2024: The next edition of the PBS Summary of Changes will be published here on 6 January 2025. If you need this document sooner, it will be available from the Fred Help Portal on 1 January 2025.
  • 25 November 2024: How do MedView Digital Baskets work?

    Innovative digital tags are attached to your pharmacy baskets, which communicate with MedView Flow to enable seamless workflow and script queuing.

    See digital baskets in action

     

     

  • 2 October 2024: Ready to discover a smarter way to handle scripts in your pharmacy?

    We’re proud to bring you industry-first smart technology that will transform your pharmacy’s script workflow.

    Introducing MedView Flow Digital Baskets – the new way to manage scripts that is safer, easier and faster than your pharmacy’s current manual system and bridges the gap between digital processes and existing use of plastic prescription baskets.

    With flexible purchase options and low set up costs, it’s easy to upgrade Medview Flow to include Digital Baskets. Find out more at www.medview.com.au/digitalbaskets

  • 1 September 2024: PBS Changes - September 2024
  • 1 September 2024: Errata to the 1 September 2024 PBS Schedule

    PBS have published an erratum containing the following errata to the September 2024 PBS Schedule:

    (1) This Erratum corrects the clinical criteria for new Migalastat item 14573B in the 1 September 2024 Schedule.

    (2) This Erratum corrects the DPMQ for CLAVULIN-125F (GlaxoSmithKline, Canada) brand of Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid in the 1 September 2024 Schedule.

    For more information, see Errata to PBS Schedule.

  • 22 August 2024: Pharmacy Connect & PA National Conference | 5-7 Sep

    We hope to see you and your team at the upcoming Pharmacy Connect and Pharmacy Assistant Conference in Sydney. Tickets to the trade exhibition are free.

    Visit Fred and MedView on stands 67 & 68 to see a live demo of NEW MedView Flow Digital Baskets. See how you can revolutionise your pharmacy workflow!

  • 1 August 2024: PBS Changes - August 2024
  • 1 July 2024: PBS Changes - July 2024
  • 1 July 2024: Fee changes applicable from 1 July 2024

    Fees

    The following fees, patient contributions, and Safety Net thresholds apply from 1 July 2024 and are included, where applicable, in prices published in the Schedule.

    Fee Type

    Fee

    Dispensing Fees

    Ready-prepared

    $8.67

    Dangerous drug fee

    $5.37

    Extemporaneously-prepared

    $10.71

    Allowable additional patient charge*

    $3.45

    Additional Fees (for safety net prices)

    Ready-prepared

    $1.45

    Extemporaneously-prepared

    $1.87

    Patient Co-payments

    General

    $31.60

    Concessional

    $7.70

    Safety Net Thresholds

    General

    $1647.90

    Concessional

    $277.20

    Safety Net Card Issue Fee

     

    $12.04

    * The allowable additional patient charge is a discretionary charge to general patients if a pharmaceutical item has a dispensed price for maximum quantity less than the general patient co-payment. The pharmacist may charge general patients the allowable additional fee but the fee cannot take the cost of the prescription above the general patient co-payment for the medicine. This fee does not count towards the Safety Net threshold.

  • 1 June 2024: PBS Changes - June 2024
  • 1 May 2024: PBS Changes - May 2024
  • 24 April 2024: TasScript for Tasmanian Pharmacies

    TasScript real-time prescription monitoring system will be available to access from 1 May 2024.

    From 1 May 2024, it will be mandatory to check TasScript prior to writing or dispensing a prescription for a medicine monitored through the system. For more information, refer to TasScript for health practitioners on the Tasmanian Government website.

    Step 1: Register If your principal place of practice (with Ahpra) is Tasmania, you will receive an invitation email shortly. Click the link to register. If your principal place of practice is not Tasmania, or you wish to register for TasScript early, you can register here.

    Step 2: Activate Activate Realtime Prescription Monitoring (RTPM) in your dispensing software. See Activate National Data Exchange for details.

    Step 3: Dispense The National Data Exchange (NDE) returns a response when you start dispensing a prescription for an S8 or other monitored medicine. See Real Time Prescription Monitoring for more information.

  • 23 April 2024: Start preparing for your stocktake now!

    Your EOFY stocktake does not have to be done at the last minute. Start planning now – use our Interactive Stocktake Helper for Fred Office Plus. Learn More

    UPGRADE TO THE NEW FRED MOBILITY

    Now on an advanced Android platform with a familiar and modern interface, navigation and workflow.

    Find out more

    Contact your local Fred representative or sales@fred.com.au

  • 1 April 2024: PBS Changes - April 2024
  • 1 April 2024: Errata to the 1 April 2024 PBS Schedule

    PBS have published an erratum containing the following errata to the April 2024 PBS Schedule:

    (1) This Erratum removes the Premium for Copaxone brand of Glatiramer Acetate in the 1 April 2024 Schedule.

    (2) This Erratum corrects the restrictions for Niraparib in the 1 April 2024 Schedule.

    (3) This Erratum reverses the priced reduction for item code 10345L, DOLUTEGRAVIR + ABACAVIR + LAMIVUDINE in the 1 April 2024 Schedule (late notice).

    For more information, see Errata to PBS Schedule.

  • 1 March 2024: PBS Changes - March 2024
  • 22 February 2024: See you at APP2024!

    We hope you can join us at APP2024 to chat about the latest innovative and practical features to optimise your pharmacy workflows, access clinical intelligence, and deliver patient services.

    Find us at Stands 125 -126 (Fred) and 126-127 (MedView)

    You can also catch the Fred hosted Business Session, ‘Do we need Artificial Intelligence to serve customers better?’ on Thursday.

    When: Thursday, 14 March 2024 - 2.00pm - 2.45pm

    Where: Arena 1A

    Who: Paul Naismith & Regina Cowie, Fred IT Group

  • 1 February 2024: PBS Changes - February 2024
  • 1 January 2024: Emergency Arrangements for Continued Dispensing

    Please be advised that Continued Dispensing (Emergency Measure) arrangements will be expanded from 1 January 2024 until 29 February 2024 to improve access to Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines and assist in managing the demand on the health system during the flooding disaster in Far North Queensland.

    • The expanded list includes all Section 85 PBS authority and non-authority items

    • This applies to most medicines generally supplied by community pharmacies

    • S100 items are NOT to be supplied under these arrangements.

    • The normal Continued Dispensing  PBS rules apply

    The January Fred Dispense Plus drug file has been updated with the expanded list. When dispensing eligible authority items, please remember to use 123 as the authority number and enter ‘A2022CD’ in the phone approval number section.

    For continued dispensing related queries please refer to the link above. If you have any other questions, refer to Dispense a Continued Dispensing Supply or contact Fred Help.

  • 1 January 2024: Fee Changes From 1 January 2024

    Category

    Fees

    2023

    From
    1 January 2024

    Dispensing fees

    Allowable additional
    patient charge

    $3.29

    $3.45

    Patient co-payment

    General

    Concessional

    $30.00

    $7.30

    $31.60

    $7.70

    Safety Net threshold

    General

    Concessional

    $1563.50

    $262.80

    $1647.90

    $277.20

  • 1 January 2024: PBS Changes - January 2024

  • 19 December 2023: End of Year process
  • 19 December 2023: Fred Help Christmas and New Year Hours

    Fred Help will be available during Christmas and New Year.

    We suggest that you print out this calendar and display it prominently in your dispensary during the festive season. This will ensure that all of your staff are aware of the hours they can contact us, should they require support.

    Please refer to the Fred Service Summary for reference.

    DATE

    FRED HELP OFFICE HOURS (AEDT)

    Saturday 23 December 2023

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    Sunday 24 December 2023 (Christmas Eve)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Monday 25 December 2023 (Christmas Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Tuesday 26 December 2023 (Boxing Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Wednesday 27 December 2023

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Thursday 28 December 2023

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Friday 29 December 2023

    8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    Saturday 30 December 2023  (New Year's Eve)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    Sunday 31 December 2023

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    Monday 1 January 2024 (New Year's Day)

    8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Emergencies Only)

    From Tuesday 2 January 2024

    Normal support hours

    19 December 2023: The next edition of the PBS Summary of Changes will be published here on 8 January 2024. If you need this document sooner, it will be available from the Fred Help Portal on 1 January 2023.

  • 1 December 2023: PBS Changes - December 2023
  • 24 October 2023: Emerging cyber security threats to your pharmacy

    Presented at the Pharmacy Connect conference in September 2023 Fred's cyber security guru Andrew McManus explains the latest trends and emerging threats facing your pharmacy business.

    • Who has access to your data? Supply chain attack (3 mins)

    • Emerging threats - Artificial Intelligence (6.5 mins)

    • Impact of a data breach on a small business (5 mins)

    • Common cyber attacks in pharmacies (6 mins)

      Watch the Videos

  • 2 October 2023: PBS Changes - October 2023
  • 4 September 2023: PBS Changes - September 2023
  • 23 August 2023:Visit Fred at PC2023/PA2023, Sydney

    We hope to see you and your team at this year’s combined Pharmacy Connect and Pharmacy Assistant Conferences. Visit Fred at stands 43 - 44 to learn about the latest innovations to support digital extension in your pharmacy.

    Our cyber security session at Pharmacy Connect will focus on the current trends and emerging threats in the pharmacy industry. Andrew McManus will explore how the increased adoption of electronic prescriptions and digital health records has raised the risk of cyberattacks.

    Cyber security trends and emerging threats - what it means for pharmacy

    WHEN: Friday, 1 September | 12.15pm – 1.00pm

    WHERE: Maritime Ballroom 2&3

  • 23 August 2023:National Customer Experience Survey 2023 (Coming Soon!)

    In mid-September, we will be launching the National Customer Experience Survey 2023. We would greatly appreciate your participation to help us understand how we can improve and where we are getting things right. We also want to continue delivering changes to our products and services based on your feedback. Your invitation to participate in the survey will arrive in your inbox in September.

  • 10 August 2023:60 Day Dispensing of PBS Medicines

    For general information on 60 day dispensing, please visit https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/60-day-dispensing

    From 1 September 2023, medicines in stage 1 will have additional PBS Item Codes added to cater for 60 day dispensing.

    A list of medications available in stage 1 is available here https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/60-day-dispensing/pbs-medicines-current-item-codes

    When searching for drugs with a prescription date of 1 September 2023 or after, you will now see an additional PBS item code.

    For example, searching for 'Felodur 10', will now produce two search results instead of one.

    You will then select the applicable PBS Item Code based on the quantity on the prescription. This is a process that you will already be familiar with today for drugs that have multiple PBS Item Codes e.g. Nolvadex 20mg Tablets, Clexane 100mg/mL Syringe, Brufen 400mg Tablets.

    You will not see the additional PBS Item Codes if the prescription date is before 1 September 2023

  • 1 August 2023: Intercode substitution for Colestyramine 4g powder for oral liquid

    As denoted in the August 2023 PBS Schedule :

    Pharmaceutical benefits that have a 50 x 2 pack size equating to 100 sachets and a 30 x 3.334 pack size equating to 100 sachets are equivalent for the purposes of substitution.

    Due to the complexity of different pack sizes and achieving accurate DPMQ across both brands, substitution between the following PBS item codes will not be available in Fred Dispense via the usual GS shortcut.

    13351Q and 2967E

    13347L and 9249T

    Instead, search and select the brand required when dispensing under these PBS codes.

  • 1 August 2023: PBS Changes - August 2023
  • 31 July 2023: August 2023 Update: Budesonide + Formoterol (Duoresp, Biresp) 11301T Claiming

    In July 2023, the PBS Schedule included changes to the pack size and max quantity of budesonide 400 microgram/actuation + formoterol (eformoterol) fumarate dihydrate 12 microgram/actuation powder for inhalation, 2 x 60 actuation (PBS item code 11301T) from 1 to 2 in July 2023 to allow for substitution with brands marketed as a single-inhaler pack (13258T).

    This had unintended consequences for prescriptions written before 1st July and supplied after July, where a rejection R144 was returned for quantity of 2 for item 11301T. Services Australia implemented a temporary approval number “J2023BF” to allow an ‘increased quantity’ of 2 to be submitted and claimed for this item until the data was corrected in the August 2023 PBS Schedule.

    In a late notice on 28th July 2023, PBS have announced that they will be continuing the arrangement of the temporary authority code J2023BF until 30 June 2024.

    https://www.pbs.gov.au/info/news/2023/07/update-substitution-of-budesonide-formoterol-listings

    Excerpt from the web page:

    How should prescriptions written for item 11301T prior to 1 July 2023 be handled?

    Prescriptions for budesonide 400 microgram/actuation + formoterol fumarate dihydrate 12 microgram/actuation powder for inhalation written prior to 1 July 2023 will be reimbursed correctly when:

    • PBS prescriptions and/or repeats for item 11301T with a Max Quantity of 1 written prior to 1 July 2023 and dispensed after 1 July 2023 should be claimed with a quantity of 2, using the temporary authority code J2023BF.

    • New scripts/repeats for 11301T with script date prior to 1 July 2023, ensure dispensed quantity is 2 and enter J2023BF into the streamlined code or phone approval number field:

    • New scripts for 11301T with script date on or after 1 July 2023, emergency code is not required. Enter valid streamline code on script.

  • 24 July 2023: Reminder: Services Australia PRODA B2B Device expiry

    To avoid disruption to your Services Australia PBS Online claiming, you’ll need to extend your B2B Device in your PRODA account before it expires.

    You’ll need to extend your B2B device with PRODA at least every 6 months.

    Fred Dispense Plus will warn you of the impending expiry 14 days prior to expiration date

    For more information on how to do this, refer to: Managing B2B Devices in PRODA - PRODA (Provider Digital Access) on the Services Australia website or call Services Australia on 1800 700 199.

  • 24 July 2023: Are you attending PSA23?

    Explore the role of digital health in optimising everyday pharmacy practice and improving patient health outcomes.

    Unlock the power of digital health

    Chrysa Giannellis, Managing Partner, Hummingbird Pharmaceutical Consulting

    Sunday, 30 July 2023, 9.50 AM – 10.30 AM

  • 10 July 2023: Duoresp/Biresp 11301T Claiming Issue – July 2023

    Changes to the pack size and max quantity of budesonide 400 microgram/actuation + formoterol (eformoterol) fumarate dihydrate 12 microgram/actuation powder for inhalation, 2 x 60 actuation (PBS item code 11301T) from 1 to 2 in July 2023 as well as double dagger indicator have had unintended consequences on prescriptions written before 1st July and supplied after July.

    Services Australia have implemented a temporary PBS authority approval number that will allow an ‘increased quantity’ of 2 to be submitted and claimed for this item.

    Regarding the R144 message for a quantity of 2 for item 11301T:

    • Use Authority Prescription number as per prescription

    • Use Authority Approval Number “J2023BF”

    • Disregard PBS Online Warning 151 if returned

    • For existing scripts that have R144 errors, edit scripts and enter J2023BF in the Streamline Code or Phone Approval Number field.

    • For new scripts/repeats for 11301T with script date prior to 1 July 2023, please enter J2023BF into the Streamline Code or Phone Approval Number field.

    • For new scripts for 11301T with script date on or after 1 July 2023, an emergency code is not required. Enter valid streamline code from the script into the Streamline Code or Phone Approval Number field.

  • 29 June 2023: Opioid Dependence Treatment 1 July 2023 Changes

    From 1st of July ODT medicines will become part of the S100 Highly Specialised Drugs (HSD) Program (Community Access) arrangements.

    Under this program, PBS eligible patients will pay the PBS co-payment to access their prescribed treatment (for up to 28 days’ supply per pharmaceutical benefit prescribed) and the amount paid will contribute towards their PBS Safety Net threshold. Additional private dispensing or dosing fees cannot be charged by section 90 community or section 94 hospital pharmacies to patients for access to ODT medicines under the PBS.

    An ODT Community pharmacy program will be available for section 90 community pharmacies to submit claims through the PPA portal for services associated with in-pharmacy and take-away dosing.

    The operation of state and territory ODT programs are and will continue to be governed by the respective policies, guidelines and regulations within each of those jurisdictions.

    For more information on these changes as well as transitional arrangements, please refer to PBS factsheet for pharmacists.

    Temporary transition arrangements for existing ODT prescriptions are being put in place to enable patients to continue to access the medicines that they need.

    For Paper prescriptions written before 1 July, refer to page 5 of the PBS Factsheet .

    Electronic prescriptions written before 1 July 2023 will be dispensed differently during the transition period. This is because administrative systems do not support suppliers submitting PBS claims for electronic ODT prescriptions written prior to 1 July 2023 in the usual way.

    PBS prescriptions written for ODT medicines on or after 1 July 2023 can be electronic.

    Fred Dispense Plus instructions for ePrescriptions during the transition

    We are providing the additional information below in good faith to assist you. It is recommended that you consult the PBS Factsheet for official advice.

    The example below is provided to assist relevant pharmacies during the transition period and should be viewed in conjunction with the PBS Factsheet referenced above.

    Scenario - Prescription for Methadone Syrup was dispensed as an ePrescription on 28 June 2023 with a weekly takeaway dose.

    1. Edit the prescription in the usual manner.

      (Click the image to enlarge it).

    2. Click on the green image or press <CTRL + Right Arrow> to expand the view of the script.

      The script details are displayed.

      (Click the image to enlarge it).

    3. Take a screenshot of the script details—press Windows logo key + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool.

    4. Position your mouse at the top left corner of the script details and drag to the lower right.

      (Click the image to enlarge it).

      The image is captured and stored in the clipboard.

    5. Open a blank word document and paste the image (CTRL + V).

    6. Print the document and annotate as outlined on page 5 of the PBS Factsheet .

    1. Start the dispensing process for the patient.

    2. When prompted for an Authority, fill in the Authority Number and either Streamlined Code or Phone Approval Number and click Yes.

      Refer to Table 4 in the PBS Factsheet .

      * Use either the PBS Authority Approval Number or the relevant Streamline Authority Code depending on the quantity that is required to be dispensed.

    3. In the Quantity field, enter the remaining amount to be dispensed.

    4. Continue dispensing in the usual manner.

    In addition to the PBS Factsheet referenced above, the following resources may help you with the transition:

  • 3 July 2023: Pack size changes to Methadone Oral Liquid 5mg/mL

    The Department of Health is making changes to the below-mentioned products on the PBS to allow for dispensing of volumes smaller than a whole bottle at PBS subsidised prices. This is also in line with the new arrangement for Opioid Dependence Treatment Changes which allow for scripts for ODT medications to be claimed via the S100 HSD Program (Community Access). Note that the full volume per bottle will still be includedin the strength allow for distinction between 200mL bottle and the 1L bottle, both which are listed on PBS for July 2023.

    Changes to Methadone 5mg/mL oral liquid 1L
     

    Current

    Amendments from 1 July 2023

    Name, Form and Strength

    methadone hydrochloride 5 mg/mL oral liquid, 1 L 

    methadone hydrochloride 5 mg/mL oral liquid, 1 L 

    Pack Size

    1

    1000

     

    Changes to Methadone 5mg/mL oral liquid 200mL
     

    Current

    Amendments from 1 July 2023

    Name, Form and Strength

    methadone hydrochloride 5 mg/mL oral liquid, 200mL 

    methadone hydrochloride 5 mg/mL oral liquid, 200mL 

    Pack Size

    1

    200

    Max Qty

    1

    200

    Fred IT Group advises that scripts submitted prior to 1 July 2023 should not be edited if possible due to unknown flow on effects to POS, DD Book and reports.

  • 3 July 2023: Fee changes applicable from 1 July 2023

    Fees

    The following fees, patient contributions, and Safety Net thresholds apply from 1 July 2023 and are included, where applicable, in prices published in the Schedule.

    Fee Type

    Fee

    Dispensing Fees

    Ready-prepared

    $8.37

    Dangerous drug fee

    $5.18

    Extemporaneously-prepared

    $10.41

    Allowable additional patient charge*

    $3.29

    Additional Fees (for safety net prices)

    Ready-prepared

    $1.40

    Extemporaneously-prepared

    $1.80

    Patient Co-payments

    General

    $30.00

    Concessional

    $7.30

    Safety Net Thresholds

    General

    $1563.50

    Concessional

    $262.80

    Safety Net Card Issue Fee

     

    $11.42

    * The allowable additional patient charge is a discretionary charge to general patients if a pharmaceutical item has a dispensed price for maximum quantity less than the general patient co-payment. The pharmacist may charge general patients the allowable additional fee but the fee cannot take the cost of the prescription above the general patient co-payment for the medicine. This fee does not count towards the Safety Net threshold.

  • 3 July 2023: PBS Changes - July 2023
  • 29 June 2023: Electronic Prescription Fee changes

    The 15-cent electronic prescription fee (EPF) paid to pharmacies via the Community Pharmacy Agreement will end on 30 June 2023. The ending of the EPF will maintain a cost-neutral arrangement for pharmacies as they will no longer be charged a 15c fee for eligible prescriptions by the Prescription Delivery Services. The Australian Digital Health Agency will continue to reimburse the cost of electronic prescribing SMS notifications to 30 September 2023. SMS notifications will then be funded through the national PDS.

    For more information see Connecting to the National Prescription Delivery Service from the Department of Health and Aged Care.

  • 26 June 2023: Dispensing MySL Prescriptions

    As of Monday 26 June 2023 patients can no longer access their MySL active script list with the WhatsApp MySL service. Patients who try to access this service will see one of the following messages:

    WhatsApp access to MySL (My Script List) is currently unavailable however your electronic prescriptions are still available for dispensing.

    Please speak to your pharmacist to access these scripts or I can connect you now via WhatsApp.

    Type in the number or one of the words to chat with your pharmacist.

    *1. Yes* Chat to the pharmacy

    *2. No* Please end the conversation

    Ordering your prescriptions via WhatsApp is currently not available however your electronic prescriptions are still available for dispensing. Please speak to your pharmacist to access those scripts.

    Ending your chat session now. It was our pleasure to help you today, goodbye.

    Please advise any affected customers that their prescriptions are still available to be dispensed from their MySL.

    Find out how to dispense prescriptions from a Patient's MySL.

  • 25 May 2023: Pack Size Changes to Ordine 1mg/mL

    Due to feedback received from pharmacists, the pack size of Ordine 1mg/mL oral solution has been updated to allow pharmacists to dispense volumes smaller than a whole bottle.

    Changes to ORDINE 1 O-SOLN 1mg/mL
      Current Amendments from 1 June 2023
    Name, Form and Strength ORDINE 1 O-SOLN 1mg/mL, 200mL ORDINE 1 O-SOLN 1mg/mL
    Pack Size 1 200

    FRED advises that scripts submitted prior to 1 June 2023 should not be edited if possible due to unknown flow on effects to POS, DD Book and reports.

  • 25 May 2023: Get ready for stocktake season!

    EOFY stocktake season is fast approaching. Start planning now – use our Interactive Stocktake Helper for Fred Office Plus. Learn More

    UPGRADE TO THE NEW FRED MOBILITY

    Now on an advanced Android platform with a familiar and modern interface, navigation and workflow.

    Find out more

    Contact your local Fred representative or sales@fred.com.au to claim a 10% discount on kits purchased before EOFY2023.

  • 25 May 2023: Fred IT to host national electronic prescription service

    Fred IT Group has been awarded the contract to deliver the next phase of the national electronic prescription delivery service for the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

    Using eRx Script Exchange, the new service will ensure that Australian health professionals and patients continue to have access to a robust, secure electronic prescription network.

    Find out more

  • 1 May 2023:PBS Changes - May 2023
  • 24 April 2023:AJP | Pharmacies facing increase in ‘cyber activity’

    In this interview with AJP, Andrew McManus, Fred’s general manager service delivery, addresses the rising threat cyber criminals pose to Australia’s community pharmacy network and how to defend against attacks by investing in your people, processes and technology. Watch Now

    Fred can help you with any questions or concerns regarding cyber security in your pharmacy. Contact your Fred representative or reach us at sales@fred.com.au or 1800 888 828.

  • 24 April 2023:Start preparing for your stocktake now!

    Your EOFY stocktake does not have to be done at the last minute. Start planning now – use our Interactive Stocktake Helper for Fred Office Plus. Learn More

    UPGRADE TO THE NEW FRED MOBILITY

    Now on an advanced Android platform with a familiar and modern interface, navigation and workflow.

    Find out more

    Contact your local Fred representative or sales@fred.com.au to claim a 10% discount on kits purchased before EOFY2023.

  • 4 April 2023: Late notice 1 April 2023 PBS Schedule - PBS Pricing Information Novorapid Vials (8571D) and Flutiform 50/5 (2827T)

    A late notice was received from PBS on the 31st March and 3rd of April regarding the incorrect price for 8571D and 2827T in the 1 April 2023 PBS Schedule, please refer to the erratum document published by PBS:

    https://www.pbs.gov.au/publication/schedule/2023/04/2023-04-01-Errata.pdf

    https://www.pbs.gov.au/publication/schedule/2023/04/2023-04-01-errata-2-pricing-of-fluticasone-propionate-with-formoterol.pdf

    The pricing will be corrected by PBS in the 1 May 2023 schedule, which will be delivered in the Fred Dispense 1 May 2023 update.

    For more information please see the details on the PBS news website:

    Novorapid® (insulin aspart) PBS pricing information

    Flutiform 50/5® (fluticasone propionate + formoterol (eformoterol)) PBS pricing information

  • 3 April 2023:PBS Changes - April 2023
  • 1 March 2023:PBS Changes - March 2023
  • 1 February 2023:PBS Changes to Morphine and Oxycodone oral solution

    The Department of Health is making changes to the listing of the below-mentioned products on the PBS to allow pharmacists to dispense volumes smaller than a whole bottle at PBS subsidised prices.

    • Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 2 mg per mL, 200 mL

    • Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 5 mg per mL, 200 mL

    • Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 10 mg per mL, 200 mL and

    • Oral solution containing oxycodone hydrochloride 1 mg per mL, 250 mL

    The changes being implemented mirror those made on 1 August 2022 to the listing of oral solution containing hydromorphone hydrochloride 1 mg per mL, 1 mL following consultation with key stakeholders representing prescribers, pharmacists, pharmacy dispensing software, electronic Schedule 8 drug registers, and state and territory health authorities.

    Amendments to the PBS listing of Morphine oral solution Change

     

    Current

    Amendments from 1 February 2023

    Legislative Instrument form descriptions

    Oral solution containing hydromorphone hydrochloride 2 mg per mL, 200 mL

    Oral solution containing hydromorphone hydrochloride 2 mg per mL, 1 mL

    Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 5 mg per mL, 200 mL

    Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 5 mg per mL, 1 mL

    Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 10 mg per mL, 200 mL

    Oral solution containing morphine hydrochloride trihydrate 10 mg per mL, 1 mL

    Pharmaceutical Item value

    1 unit (ie. bottle)

    200 units (ie. millilitres)

    Pack Qty

    1

    200

    Pricing Qty

    1

    200

    Max Qty Units

    1

    200

     

    Amendments to the PBS listing of Oxycodone oral solution Change

     

    Current

    Amendments from 1 February 2023

    Legislative Instrument form descriptions

    Oral solution containing oxycodone hydrochloride 1 mg per mL, 250 mL

    Oral solution containing oxycodone hydrochloride 1 mg per mL, 1 mL

    Pharmaceutical Item value

    1 unit (ie. bottle)

    250 units (ie. millilitres)

    Pack Qty

    1

    250

    Pricing Qty

    1

    250

    Max Qty Units

    1

    250

    Pharmacy action

    When supplying these prescriptions as originals or repeats, which were written prior to but supplied on or after 1 Feb 2023, pharmacies must update the quantity representing the number of mL’s as applicable (remembering to allow for smaller volumes) from what was previously represented as a pack quantity of 1.

    Example: PBS Scripts for one bottle of hydromorphone oral solution written prior to 1 February 2023 and dispensed after 1 February 2023 should be claimed with quantity 200 (for morphine hydrochloride trihydrate) or 250 (for oxycodone hydrochloride).

    For more information please see the announcement, Changes to PBS listing of morphine and oxycodone oral solutions , from the Department of Health.

  • 24 January 2023: Your new customer support service

    We are excited to announce your new look customer support service that will make it easier and faster for us to respond to your needs.

    What's New?

    Fred Customer Portal: Create a service request, view & manage your requests, search the knowledgebase

    Live Chat: Interact with a Fred Help consultant to ask quick questions

    What's Changed?

    • Improved Fred Service Levels (including Saturday)

    • Extended business hours

    • Outside of business hours, emergency only Sunday

  • 11 January 2023: PBS Changes - January 2023
  • 11 January 2023:Fee Changes from 1 January 2023

    The following PBS fee changes are effective from 1 January 2023:

    Category

    Fees

    2022

    From 1 January 2023

    Dispensing fees

    Allowable additional patient charge

    $4.54

    $3.29

    Patient co-payment

    General

    Concessional

    $42.50

    $6.80

    $30.00

    $7.30

    Safety Net threshold

    General

    Concessional

    $1457.10

    $244.80

    $1563.50

    $262.80