NRAS registration delays
Some PSA members have raised concerns about delays in the processing of registrations under the new National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.
It should be noted WA has not yet joined the NRAS and the earliest date this can occur is 18th October. Until WA does join the scheme, all pharmacists wishing to practise in WA are required to be registered and licensed by the Pharmaceutical Council of WA. Also, pharmacists registered in WA who wish to practise in another State must register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
The concerns about registration delays have been raised with the two relevant bodies – the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the Pharmacy Board of Australia – which have both issued statements concerning the delays.
In a statement posted on its website this week, AHPRA acknowledged the difficulty people were having contacting the agency and apologised for the delays.
"We know that sometimes it has been difficult to reach AHPRA on 1300 419 495 due to the exceptionally high call volumes we are experiencing. We apologise for any delays that you may have experienced. We are working hard to ensure that your phone and email queries are dealt with as quickly as possible," the statement read.
AHPRA has also directed pharmacists who are unable to contact it by phone to go to the Pharmacy Board website where a series of frequently asked questions may address some of the issues of concern.
In its statement, the Pharmacy Board of Australia says, “We know that sometimes it has been difficult to reach AHPRA on 1300 419 495 due to the exceptionally high call volumes we are experiencing.
“We apologise for any delays that you may have experienced. We are working hard to ensure that your phone and email queries are dealt with as quickly as possible.”
The Board also directs inquirers to its website and provides the following information:
- Searching the National Registers. Those wanting to check the registration status of an individual health practitioner, can search the national registers of practitioners online.
- Registering for the first time? If you are registering for the first time, read how the registration process works.
- Applying for registration or want to change your registration? Visit the Forms section of this website for links to forms.
- Registration requirements? See the registration standards section of this website for information.
- Frequently asked questions which can be accessed through the 'Hot Topics' box on the AHPRA homepage.
PSA is aware of the problems being encountered by members and will continue to monitor the situation and urge AHPRA and PBA to try to rectify the situation as quickly as possible.
