How the Free Interpreting Service (FIS) supports pharmacies
The FIS gives pharmacies free access to professional interpreters to communicate with customers with limited English proficiency. Using interpreters can also protect pharmacists from professional risk.
Pharmacies dispense and sell medications that can be dangerous if taken incorrectly. Information about medications can be complex. It is essential that people can communicate effectively with pharmacists and pharmacy staff about their medications - how to take them correctly, and any risks or side effects.
Many people seek general health information and advice from pharmacies as trusted health professionals. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) Code of Conduct outlines standards for meeting patient’s language, cultural, and communication needs, including using interpreters when needed.
Eligibility and registration
FIS eligible pharmacies and pharmacists are defined as:
- community retail pharmacies
- AHPRA registered pharmacists providing community pharmacy services
- AHPRA registered pharmacists working in a private medical practice
- intern pharmacists during approved supervised practice.
Pharmacists, and other staff working in community pharmacies can use the FIS if:
- the pharmacy has a PBS approval number, or the pharmacist is registered with AHPRA, and
- they are working in a community setting, and
- they are delivering services to anyone in Australia who is eligible for Medicare (Australian citizens, permanent residents and select temporary visa holders).
Eligible activities
Pharmacies can use the FIS:
- to dispense medication, provide advice, assist with diagnosis, support vaccinations, and deliver other pharmacy services
- to administer COVID-19 vaccinations to non-Medicare eligible customers.
Ineligible activities
The FIS cannot be used by Australian or state/territory government-funded pharmacy services and programs.
Registration
Pharmacists can choose to register for the FIS as either a community pharmacy or pharmacist.
Pharmacy Priority Line
1300 131 450
24 hours a day, every day of the year
