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Pharmacists mark NAIDOC Week

8 July 2024

 

This week, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) acknowledges NAIDOC Week from 7 to 14 July 2024, celebrating and recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

 

The theme of NAIDOC Week 2024 is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud.

 

In the spirit of continued learning, PSA continues to encourage all pharmacists practising in Australia to undertake the Deadly Pharmacists Foundation Training Program developed in co-design with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), growing the cultural knowledge and understanding that underpins quality health care.

 

PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS reaffirmed the role of pharmacists in recognising and implementing culturally safe care.

 

“All healthcare professionals have a responsibility to provide health care that is culturally responsive for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,” Associate Professor Sim said.

 

“This NAIDOC Week, PSA once again recognises the important role pharmacists can play in closing the gap and improving health outcomes for First Nations people.”

 

“PSA’s longstanding commitment to culturally safe health care continues to grow, working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations to promote a truly patient-centred model of care that recognises and works with – not against – our patients’ cultures.

 

“We continue to advocate for permanent funding for the integration of pharmacists into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health services following a positive MSAC recommendation in 2023. This model of care has been proven to make a significant improvement to the health outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

 

The Deadly Pharmacists Foundation Training Program is free and available to all Australian pharmacists. PSA encourages all pharmacists interacting with patients to make a commitment to undertake the training this NAIDOC Week, gaining a better understanding of the health needs of First Nations people.

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Additionally, pharmacists who are looking to gain the new MMR credential can upload their certificate of completion of the Deadly Pharmacists Foundation Training program as evidence of APC Performance Outcome 1.1, demonstrating their learning in the area of promoting, maintaining and advocating for cultural safety, respect and responsiveness in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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PSA welcomes new NAPSA Board

8 July 2024

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the election of Sebastian Harper (Griffith University) as President of the National Australian Pharmacy Students’​ Association (NAPSA) over the weekend.

 

PSA also recognises and congratulates the incoming NAPSA executive elected alongside Mr Harper to serve for the 2024/25 term.

 

PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS congratulated the incoming Board.

 

“Congratulations to Sebastian Harper and his team on their election as the next leaders of NAPSA,” Associate Professor Sim said.

 

“Sebastian has been a fantastic leader as NAPSA Treasurer, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role as President.

 

“PSA works closely with NAPSA to ensure that students are supported, and their voices heard on issues affecting their futures.

 

“We are proud to support NAPSA through our joint Memorandum of Understanding, continuing to strengthen the partnership between PSA and pharmacy students.

 

“I also wish to congratulate outgoing President Bano Serhan for her commitment and service to the NAPSA Board and pharmacy students over the past year. On behalf of PSA, we wish Bano the best for the rest of her studies and look forward to continuing to support her throughout her career as a pharmacist.”

 

 

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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Pharmacy Student of the Year finalists head to PSA24

5 July 2024

 

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has today announced the finalists for its annual Pharmacy Student of the Year competition who will compete for the top prize at PSA’s national conference PSA24 in August.

 

The final will test pharmacy students with a real-life clinical situation, where a patient will present with symptoms or a specific medicine or product request. Students are then required to use their clinical knowledge and communication skills to identify the most appropriate management, tailoring their response to provide the patient-centred advice.

 

A judging panel will assess all state finalists before selecting the national winner to be announced at PSA24’s Gala Dinner.

 

The 2024 PSA Viatris Pharmacy Student of the Year finalists are:

  • Blake Fraser, University of Technology Sydney (NSW finalist)
  • Emily Schrek, La Trobe University (Victorian finalist)
  • Bridget Cleary, University of Western Australia (WA finalist)
  • Tobey Adubasim, University of Tasmania (Tasmanian finalist)
  • Hayden Scott, University of Canberra (ACT finalist)
  • Shylee-Jade Hadar-Pagliari, James Cook University (Queensland finalist)
  • Callum Gunn, University of South Australia (SA finalist)
  • Lauren Murray, Charles Darwin University (NT finalist)
  • McKinley Nolan, University of Tasmania (NAPSA Wildcard finalist)

 

PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS congratulated the PSOTY competition finalists.

 

“The Pharmacy Student of the Year competition showcases the talents of the next generation of pharmacists, giving them the opportunity to develop and grow their skills,” Associate Professor Sim said.

 

“It’s exciting to see such enthusiastic students entering our profession and dedicating their futures to improving the health and wellbeing of our communities.

 

“Award sponsor Viatris and PSA are proud to sponsor the finalists to attend the PSA24 conference where they will compete in the national finals.

 

“Congratulations to all the students who’ve participated in the competition this year for their dedication and commitment to pharmacy. Regardless of the outcome, you are already winners and should feel very proud for putting yourselves out of your comfort zone, for stepping up and taking on the challenge. This is exactly the ethos of our profession.”

 

PSA extends thanks to the PSOTY award sponsor, Viatris, for their ongoing support and wishes all finalists the best of luck at the national final.

 

Find out more about the PSA Pharmacy Student of the Year competition by visiting www.psa.org.au/psoty 

 

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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Experienced pharmacy leader elected as PSA Tasmania President

3 July 2024

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is proud to announce the election of experienced pharmacy leader Mark Kirschbaum FPS to lead the Tasmanian branch.

 

Mr Kirschbaum is the Pharmacy Board of Australia’s practitioner member from Tasmania, a locum community pharmacist and academic at the University of Tasmania in Launceston.

 

Mr Kirschbaum is experienced in regulation, policy and advocacy, and has worked collaboratively with PSA over many years to improve patient access to care and quality use of medicines. Recently, Mr Kirschbaum has been involved in the redevelopment of Professional Practice Standards and the Tasmanian Government’s Scope of Practice Review for Pharmacists.

 

Outgoing Tasmanian Branch President David Peachey will continue to serve as Vice-President, alongside Joanne Gross MPS, with Dr Shane Jackson FPS continuing as National Board Director.

 

Mr Kirschbaum thanked outgoing President David Peachey MPS for his service to the profession and the Tasmanian Branch.

 

“I sincerely thank David Peachey for his leadership as President of our branch since 2021. I look forward to continuing to work with Vice-Presidents Dave and Joanne, and the Branch Committee to represent and support Tasmanian pharmacists.”

 

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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PSA launches credentialing program

2 July 2024

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has launched its full suite of credentials today, including pathways for both experienced consultant pharmacists and those looking to expand their practice.

The Medication Management Review (MMR) credential and Aged Care Onsite Pharmacist (ACOP) credential are now open for enrolment. Pharmacists with relevant experience can submit evidence of qualifications and/or practical experience as part of a Recognition of Prior Learning pathway for both the MMR and ACOP credentials.

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PSA is currently the only education provider to offer a full suite of products, including both credentials and RPL pathways for both. To continue its support for credentialed pharmacists, PSA is offering the MMR Credential through the RPL pathway free of charge for Professional Plus members.

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PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS said today’s credentialing program launch marks the next milestone in PSA’s package for credentialed pharmacists.

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“PSA’s credentialing program is built by pharmacists, for pharmacists,” Associate Professor Fei Sim said. “We are proud to offer a full suite of education and support to our credentialed pharmacist members, from credentialing and all the way through your everyday practice.

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“Our support doesn’t stop once you gain your credentials, we are proud to continue supporting you and your practice with regular clinical updates, continued professional development, industry-leading practice support, and the annual Consultant Pharmacist Conference.

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“We continue to invest in credentialed and consultant pharmacists, not only through a great membership product and leading training program, but also through our advocacy for the future of comprehensive medication management.

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“PSA’s long history of advocating for Medication Management Reviews and Aged Care Onsite Pharmacists does not stop here. We are your voice, we are your peak body.

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“PSA is the home of credentialed and consultant pharmacists – issuing the credentials you need to continue in your practice, connecting you with your colleagues, and advocating for the future of the services you provide,” Associate Professor Sim concluded.

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Leading consultant pharmacist Adjunct Associate Professor Debbie Rigby FPS welcomed the launch, pointing to PSA’s growing support for credentialed and consultant pharmacists.

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“I’m excited to be joining PSA to amplify the voices of consultant pharmacists and the valuable role they play in medication safety and quality use of medicines through multidisciplinary, collaborative care,” Ms Rigby said.

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“PSA’s credentials highlight the strong commitment of PSA towards the practice of consultant pharmacy and supporting members to deliver high quality medication management and care.”

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PSA’s MMR and ACOP credentials are now open for enrolments. Visit https://www.psa.org.au/career-and-support/credentialed-pharmacists/ for more information. ​

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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Tasmania expands access to oral contraception from today

1 July 2024

 

From today, Tasmanian pharmacists can extend prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills in a move welcomed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA).

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Following a consultation with a pharmacist, Tasmanian patients aged 16 to 50 who have been stable on an oral contraceptive pill for two years will be able to access an additional 12 month supply of their pill. Patients must return to their GP every two years for assessment.

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Joining Tasmanian Health Minister Guy Barnett MP and Minister for Women Jo Palmer MLC yesterday, PSA Tasmanian Branch President Mark Kirschbaum FPS welcomed the announcement.

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“PSA has proudly advocated for expanded access to the oral contraceptive pill for some time, and we are particularly welcoming of the measure as a permanent part of our health system,” Mr Kirschbaum said.

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“Improving safe access to contraception is essential to improving Tasmanians’ access to health care. As pharmacists, we are proud to be playing our part in making accessible when and where they are needed.

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“PSA continues to support pharmacists across the state, with training available to all Tasmanian pharmacists participating in the program.

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“We are encouraged to see the Tasmanian Government take action on the recommendations of the Pharmacist Scope of Practice Review, and look forward to supporting the government in their work to implement the remaining recommendations,” Mr Kirschbaum concluded.

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Training is now available for Tasmanian pharmacists here.

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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PSA partner in PRIDE project, supporting safe and inclusive care for LGBTQIA+ Australians

28 June 2024

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is proudly partnering with the University of Queensland (UQ) to foster inclusive and empowered primary care workforces through the Promoting queer-inclusive professional identities for diversity in primary healthcare (PRIDE co-design) project.

 

Funded through the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), the PRIDE project aims to make affirming care more accessible through a national network of empowered LGBTQIA+ practitioners and allies, building capacity of the mainstream primary care sector to address the health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community in a safe and inclusive way.

 

The project will work with a range of peak professional bodies to deliver tailored education to health professionals. As a PRIDE project partner, PSA will offer education and resources to help pharmacists improve the care they provide LGBTQIA+ patients, starting with a session at PSA’s national conference in August.

 

PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS said there is still a long way to go to addressing health inequalities for LGBTQIA+ Australians.

 

“Everyone has the right to safe, affirming health care,” Associate Professor Sim said.

 

“57% of LGBTQIA+ Australians have reported discrimination due to their sexual orientation, and almost 80% of people who are trans or gender diverse had experienced discrimination due to their gender identity. Stigma and discrimination in the health care context contributes to greater health disparities experienced by LGBTQIA+ communities and can lead to delaying or avoiding healthcare entirely.

 

“As some of the most accessible health care professionals, pharmacists have a duty of care to patients to ensure that healthcare is provided in a way that is inclusive and appropriate for all people.

 

“PSA strongly believes in the potential of PRIDE co-design project to have a transformative impact on the development of inclusive and affirming models of care for LGBTQIA+ people experiencing intersectional disadvantage within our health care system.

 

“We are proud to be working with Dr Ross and her team to provide pharmacists with the resources and training needed to promote truly person-centred care,” A/Prof Sim concluded.

 

PRIDE Project leader and Chief Investigator Dr Megan Ross highlighted the importance of creating a culture of safe and supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ health practitioners, too.

 

“Building the capacity of the primary health workforce to deliver safe and affirming care has to include creating safe and inclusive environments for health providers. Too often we see trans and queer practitioners exit the workforce, we need a culture of inclusion that supports LGBTQIA+ practitioners to remain in the workforce and provide safe and affirming care to the community,” Dr Ross said.

 

“Building multi-disciplinary, connected and trusted network of safe and affirming providers addresses a current gap in primary care.

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“A multi-disciplinary affirming provider network will facilitate access to continuous, trustable safe and affirming care across the primary care landscape for LGBTQIA+ consumers, and support LGBTQIA+ practitioners to feel safe and supported in their workplaces.”

 

Delegates attending PSA24 will have the opportunity to connect with the PRIDE Project during the session Does the pharmacy profession get a rainbow tick? presented by Professor Lisa Nissen and Dr Jean Spinks on Sunday 4 August, 2024.

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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Media statement: Vaping reform legislation

26 June 2024

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) acknowledges the passing of reforms today that aim to shut down the retail model of vape supply in Australia.

 

The legislation which has now passed the Senate defines the minimum legal requirements for prescribing as a Pharmacist Only Medicine (Schedule 3). In addition, pharmacists will be expected to adhere to PSA’s Guidelines for pharmacists providing smoking cessation support, which will be updated prior to 1 October 2024.

 

While the amendments to the legislation are not PSA’s preferred approach, we also recognise the need for strong action to address the vaping public health crisis, and this starts with ending retail supply of vapes.

 

Quotes attributable to PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim:


“PSA has consistently called for strong action to address the public health crisis that vaping has become.

 

“While this is not our preferred model, PSA remains firm in the belief that something needed to be done to prevent another generation of Australians to becoming addicted to nicotine and experiencing the health consequences of vaping.

 

“Once legislation has passed both houses, our focus will be firmly on supporting pharmacists through these changes.

 

“PSA will work with government to support the pharmacists who choose to be involved in the prescribing and dispensing of nicotine-containing therapeutic vapes. PSA will develop best-practice guidelines to describe how pharmacists prescribe products for smoking cessation products, including nicotine-containing therapeutic vapes.

 

“People will not be able to simply buy vapes on request – they must take part in a therapeutic consultation with a pharmacist who will prescribe a therapy based on clinical need.  It will be very different to how Australians are currently buying vapes.

 

“The coming months will be critical in ensuring pharmacists and the community have a clear understanding of how this model will work as a health-based approach to nicotine dependence management.”​

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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PSA position on proposed vaping reforms

25 June 2024

 

Based on current information, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is not supportive of proposed amendments to the Therapeutic Goods and other Legislation (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024 which are before Parliament this week.

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If the proposed amendment to downschedule nicotine vaping products becomes part of the final legislation, there would not be an adequate transition of nicotine-vaping being a retail product to it becoming a health-care professional prescribed tool to support smoking cessation.

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Quotes attributable to PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim:

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“Vaping is a public health crisis; It has unique harms which are different from tobacco smoking, and we share the government’s concerns that another generation is becoming dependent on nicotine.

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“Doing nothing is not an option – and therefore, we continue to support the government’s intent as outlined in the original vaping reform legislation.

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“Further, PSA continues to strongly support the government’s intent to limit the supply of vaping and removing vapes from retail settings.

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“However, the amendment proposed undermines the role of pharmacists as health care professionals.

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“The amendment – if it was to pass the Senate in its current form – asks pharmacists to prescribe unapproved, unregulated, untested vaping products to the public.

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“This would not represent a health model. Pharmacist Only Medicines are pharmacist-prescribed medicines, which include a consultation with patients to establish therapeutic need. Not having patient information recorded in the prescribing of nicotine-containing vapes is inconsistent with the normal provision of health care.

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“We cannot and do not support positioning pharmacists as retailers rather than health professionals.

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“Pharmacists can and should be involved in harm minimisation and nicotine dependence management, but in the absence of a TGA-approved product, effective clinical governance framework and evidence-based clinical guidelines supporting their use, we cannot embed a therapeutic model of prescribing vapes.

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“PSA’s role is to support pharmacists to practise and perform their clinical tasks professionally and ethically. PSA will, in good faith, continue to have constructive discussions with stakeholders on this important public health issue.

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“PSA maintains support for the original intent of the Bill, to limit the supply of therapeutic vapes through prescription only and taking them out of the hands of children.”

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant recipients announced

24 June 2024

 

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is proud to announce the recipients of the second annual PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant.

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This grant provides a unique opportunity for recipients to attend the PSA National Conference in Sydney from 2-4 August, supporting the continued professional development of First Nations pharmacists.

 

Inspired and supported by Professor McMillan herself, the PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant is awarded each year to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander pharmacists to attend Australia’s leading pharmacist education conference hosted by PSA.

 

Thanks to the generosity of this year’s grant sponsors Care Pharmaceuticals and Hydralyte, and AstraZeneca, PSA is proudly supporting three pharmacists to attend PSA24.

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The recipients of the PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant for 2024 are:

  • Timothy Hockam
  • Elizabeth Dening
  • Kirralee Natty

 

Quotes attributable to Professor Faye McMillan AM FPS:

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“Congratulations to all the recipients. Belonging is such a critical aspect of being part of a profession, and the relationship with PSA provides a sense of belonging. I hope all the recipients enjoy every aspect of PSA24, and I look forward to seeing them there.”

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Quotes attributable to PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS:

 

“As we celebrate the recipients of the PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant, PSA reaffirms our commitment to nurturing diversity and inclusion within the pharmacy profession.

 

“Supporting First Nations pharmacists is not just about equity; it’s about recognising and harnessing the unique perspectives and contributions they bring to the healthcare landscape.

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“Congratulations to Timothy, Elizabeth and Kirralee, we are excited to have you as part of this year’s conference.”

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Quotes attributable to Marketing Manager of Care Pharmaceuticals and Hydralyte Joan Isaac:

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“We are proud sponsors of the PSA Faye McMillan Grant, recognising the remarkable achievements of Indigenous pharmacists like Professor Faye McMillan in advancing healthcare equity. By supporting this initiative, Care Pharmaceuticals and Hydralyte affirm our dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the pharmacy profession, ensuring culturally sensitive care for all.

 

“As leading providers of innovative healthcare solutions for Australian families, Care Pharmaceuticals and Hydralyte are honoured to sponsor the PSA Faye McMillan Grant. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists to attend the PSA National Conference, contributing to discussions on improving Indigenous healthcare and building a more representative pharmacy workforce for the benefit of all Australians.”

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Quotes attributable to Country President of AstraZeneca Australia and New Zealand Ben McDonald:

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“Pharmacists are critical to providing front line health care to communities across Australia. Increasing the representation of pharmacists who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander is crucial in supporting and delivering culturally appropriate health care.

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“AstraZeneca is proud to support the ongoing professional development of First Nations pharmacists by partnering with the PSA’s Faye McMillan Conference Grant.”

 

PSA24 is a premier platform for pharmacists to exchange knowledge, foster collaborations, and explore innovations shaping the future of healthcare. With the support of the PSA Faye McMillan Conference Grant, these exceptional pharmacists will have the opportunity to engage with peers, expand their skill sets, and contribute to advancing pharmacy practice in Australia.

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About Professor Faye McMillan AM

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Professor Faye McMillan AM is a Wiradjuri yinaa (woman) originally from Trangie, NSW. She is a dedicated community pharmacist and is recognised as the first Indigenous Australian to hold a western degree in pharmacy in this country.

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Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

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In the spirit of reconciliation, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were our first pharmacists.

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