Ahpra updates prescribing framework to meet evolving healthcare needs
- Regulation
Australia’s National Prescribing Competencies Framework has been updated following an extensive review by Ahpra and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, to support safer and more effective healthcare.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), in collaboration with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, has released the third edition of the National Prescribing Competencies Framework – Embedding quality use of medicines into practice (the framework), marking a significant step forward in patient-centred care and safe prescribing practices across regulated health professions. The framework, now available on the Ahpra website, was last updated in 2021 and provides essential guidance for prescribers operating in Australia.
The latest update responds to the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare and medicine use. Notably, new competencies have been added to better manage the prescribing of unapproved therapeutic goods, compounded products, and medicines for unregistered indications. This builds on Ahpra’s recent guidance concerning other areas with high volumes of prescribing such as medicinal cannabis and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, ensuring practitioners remain current with best practice and regulatory obligations.
Built on principles of shared decision-making and person-centred care, the framework now places a greater emphasis on cultural safety and quality and safe use of medicines. It applies to all prescribers, regardless of professional background or practice setting, and serves as a touchstone for education, training, and regulatory responses. The update follows consultation with education providers, professional associations, and health consumer groups to ensure broad relevance and support for safe prescribing.
With its new edition, Ahpra aims to support both practitioners and educators in navigating complex prescribing scenarios by providing practical, evidence-based guidance. The framework will remain under Ahpra’s stewardship until December 2029.
Explore the updated National Prescribing Competencies Framework to ensure continued best practice in safe, effective prescribing.
Information sessions to support understanding and implementation of the new competencies are planned for the following session dates. You can register via the links below.
Social Sharing
Share this via
Or copy link