Abstract:
Men recovering from prostate surgery often face challenges such as erectile dysfunction (ED), urinary incontinence, and psychological distress, all of which can significantly impact their quality of life and relationships. Traditional healthcare pathways may not adequately address these multifaceted issues, resulting in fragmented care, under-treatment, and poor long-term outcomes.
This presentation explores a pharmacist-led model of care implemented through MensHealth Downunder and BlokesHealth initiatives in Queensland. As one of Australia’s first full-scope prescribing pharmacists specialising in men’s health, I have developed and delivered an integrated, accessible service tailored specifically to the needs of men recovering from prostate cancer treatment.
Key components of this model include:
Accessibility: Providing timely, local, and telehealth-based support in a familiar community pharmacy setting, removing traditional barriers such as long waitlists and stigma around men seeking help.
Holistic Approach: Supporting physical recovery with medication, devices (e.g. vacuum erection pumps, incontinence clamps), and tailored education, while addressing emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Pharmaceutical Interventions: Prescribing and counselling on therapies including PDE5 inhibitors, intracavernosal injections (e.g. Trimix, Quadmix), and compounded gels and troches, alongside non-pharmaceutical supports.
Continuity of Care: Close collaboration with urologists, GPs, and partners to reinforce shared goals and follow-up plans.
Goal-Oriented Plans & Social Prescribing: Each patient receives individualised goals, lifestyle counselling, and referral to relevant non-drug interventions—integrating social prescribing to support broader wellbeing and community connection.
Preliminary outcomes indicate improved patient satisfaction, increased treatment adherence, and a measurable improvement in confidence, intimacy, and mental health. Importantly, men who may have otherwise disengaged from follow-up care are reconnected through a pharmacist-led, trusted relationship.
This model demonstrates that pharmacists, when enabled through full scope and collaborative practice, can play a pivotal role in closing gaps in post-operative and preventive men’s health. By showcasing this approach, the presentation aims to highlight a scalable, best-practice intervention that improves quality of life and amplifies positive engagement with healthcare among Australian men