AUSTRALIA'S eighth pharmacist-turned MP, Federal Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Carers, Emma McBride, (pictured) wants more pharmacists - particularly those early in their careers - to take on leadership roles in public life.
As the lone pharmacist in the House of Representatives, McBride told delegates at the Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference (APP) on the Gold Coast yesterday, that pharmacists have a lot to offer on the political stages.
"I believe pharmacists have so much to contribute throughout our communities and within healthcare, but [also] more broadly," she said.
"I would really like to see more pharmacists step into leadership roles within our parliaments.
"There's only been eight pharmacists in the House of Representatives...[and] each and every one of you have a contribution to make and do make within your communities, within your regions and within your cities.
"And I'd like to see that voice strengthened and elevated - so to every pharmacist here today, please consider taking up these opportunities."
McBride added that with many of the 36,000 registered pharmacists in Australia classified as early career pharmacists they have a significant stake in the future of healthcare, and the decisions made at Federal and State and Territory government levels.
"I think in order for them to be effective they need to have that voice [in Parliament] and I would like to think that it's welcomed and encouraged," she said.
McBride hailed the efforts of community pharmacists throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, noting they remained available to patients who were overwhelmed and confused by the crisis.
She added that the profession has played a vital role in managing medication shortages caused by local outages and global supply chain disruptions.
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