Pharmacy Daily | Pollies united in support for pharmacy

QUEESNLAND MPs from all sides of politics were united in lauding the contributions of community pharmacists at the Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch's annual Parliamentary Reception last night.

State Health Minister, Yvette D'Ath, and Opposition Leader, David Crisafulli, voiced their support for the profession, Guild Queensland Branch President, Chis Owen, said.

"It was fantastic to hear from both the Minister and the Opposition Leader as they outlined their support for community pharmacists and the important role community pharmacy plays in the Queensland healthcare system," he said.

"The major accomplishment of the year is the safe and successful UTI Pilot, now a permanent health service in Queensland community pharmacies, which is a big win for women delivered by the Palaszczuk Labor Government.

"This decision by the government means that Queensland women will no longer have to wait for weeks or go to the emergency department for treatment because they can't get in to see a GP.

"The success of the UTI Pilot is a great start in the journey of community pharmacists practicing to their full scope."

Meanwhile, the long serving Guild Queensland Branch Industrial Relations Manager, Tina Scrine, was presented with the Queensland Branch President's Award, in recognition of her contribution to the organisation.

"Tina has dedicated 20 years of service to the Guild and community pharmacy through providing advice and guidance to members with regards to industrial relations," Owen said.

"Tina has adopted the true spirit of a membership organisation.

"Her infectious determination and passion for our members is second to none.

"This support, especially in the constantly changing environment of the COVID-19 pandemic during the past two-and-a-half-years, has been vital to our members."

TerryWhite Chemmart (TWC) Brookside pharmacy manager, Luise Fitton, was also honoured with the President's Award for her role in coordinating COVID-19 vaccine supplies between different pharmacies in the state.

Owen singled out Queensland's top five COVID-19 vaccinating pharmacies and their owners, TWC Victoria Point - Kenny Ji Hei Wong, TWC Arana Hills - Karen Brown and Rodney Garozzo, TWC Cairns Central - Brendon Reck, Cincotta Discount Chemist Indooroopilly - Mark Cawood, and Priceline Pharmacy Kippa-Ring - Andrew and Matilda Twist.

Three 50-year life members, Wandoan Pharmacy's Dinah Fraser, Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy's Mario Barbagollo and Victoria Point Pharmacy's Stathis Efstathis, were also recognised at the event.