Patients will soon be able to go to a pharmacist to get repeat prescriptions for medication.
Associate Health Minister Peter Dunne says the change will make better use of pharmacists' skills and make it easier for patients to access services.
Mr Dunne says the change is in line with other countries such as the United States and Britain, and has received wide support from the medical community.
Fourteen pharmacists are studying towards a certificate in pharmacist prescribing and should complete the course early next year.
The pharmacists will be mentored by another medical practitioner responsible for diagnosing illnesses and patient management, Mr Dunne says.
