Staged Supply

Sometimes the safest way to dispense a medicine is not all at once. Staged Supply means the pharmacy gives you your medicine in smaller, regular instalments, perhaps daily or weekly, rather than the whole quantity at one time. It is a simple arrangement that can make a real difference to safety and to sticking with treatment.

What is Staged Supply?

Under Staged Supply, your prescribed medicine is held at the pharmacy and dispensed to you in agreed portions over time. The total amount is the same; it is just released in stages. This can reduce the risk of taking too much at once, help with managing medicines day to day, and create regular, supportive contact with your pharmacist.

Who is it for?

Staged Supply suits a range of situations, including people who find a large quantity of medicine hard to manage safely, those receiving treatment for dependence, people whose circumstances make storing a full supply risky, and anyone who benefits from regular check-ins. It is usually set up in agreement between you, your prescriber, and the pharmacist, so it fits your needs.

How it works at the pharmacy

You and your prescriber (and the pharmacist) agree on the medicine, the portions, and how often you collect. The pharmacy stores the supply and dispenses each instalment on schedule. Because you come in regularly, the pharmacist can check how you are going, answer questions, and flag any concerns to your doctor. Talk to the pharmacy about collection times and any fee, and let them know if your routine or prescription changes.

When to involve your doctor

Staged Supply is arranged with your prescriber, and any change to the medicine, dose, or the staging itself is a decision for them. If you are struggling with your treatment, having side effects, or finding the arrangement difficult, raise it with your pharmacist and GP rather than changing things on your own. For an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

How it’s regulated in Australia

Staged Supply is supported under the Community Pharmacy Agreement and administered through the Pharmacy Programs Administrator, with program rules for funded staged dispensing, and it also operates within state and territory medicines law. The pharmacist delivering it is registered with the Pharmacy Board of Australia. It is a collaborative arrangement between you, your prescriber, and your pharmacy.

Official sources

• Pharmacy Programs Administrator: Staged Supply
• Healthdirect: managing your medicines

Staged Supply works best when you, your doctor, and your pharmacy agree on a routine that suits you. Use the button below to find a pharmacy offering Staged Supply near you.