COMPETITION for the title of Pharmacy Guild of Australia Pharmacy of the Year (PotY) is set to be intense with the finalists for the 2020 title named yesterday (PD breaking news).
Judge and Guild National Councillor, Nick Panayiaris, said the five pharmacies in the running for the coveted title have built on the innovation and patient-centric services that have been the hallmark of previous winners.
"Once again this year the standard has continued to rise and the five finalists have shown foresight and adaptability in developing their pharmacies for growth, sustainability -- and most importantly, improved outcomes for their patients," he said.
In its 21st year, pharmacies from Western Australia and Queensland have led the way, scooping 12 PotY titles between them, with Clint Flanigan, Jillian Hamit and Mary-Lou McDonald's Moama Pharmacy, in the running to be the fifth NSW-based store to take the title and the third in as many years.
The south-western NSW pharmacy is focused on community engagement, aiming to improve and maintain the health and wellbeing of the town.
"We live and breathe the community," Flanigan said.
"We believe it's part of our role to give back in order to make our town a great place for everyone to work and live."
While medication supply and education were core, the pharmacy had implemented health screening programs, including the development of a sleep apnoea centre.
Wally Maguire's LiveLife Pharmacy Bowen, in Queensland, is aiming to be the sixth from the sunshine state to land the title.
The pharmacy has worked hand in hand with the local community, after the devastating impact of Cyclone Debbie, to become a health hub delivering a range of professional services that previously required residents to take a five-hour round-trip to Mackay or Townsville to access.
Capital Chemist Chisholm, ACT, would be the second Canberra pharmacy to take the title, with proprietor, Rebecca Young, investing in training and up-skilling her team, with the pharmacy becoming a community health hub.
Responding to this year's dramatic influenza season, Elise Wheadon's Wizard Pharmacy Kalgoorlie Central, WA, took a collaborative approach, working with GPs and local businesses to administer 1,000 jabs in two months.
At Wheatbelt Health Care Pharmacy, Northam, WA, Georgia Bolden has also focused on working with GPs to bolster access to pharmacy services including MedsChecks.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 31 Oct 19
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 31 Oct 19