ADVANCED Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) has welcomed a new pay agreement for hospital pharmacists and technicians in New South Wales, calling it a vital first step towards addressing workforce shortages in the healthcare sector.
However, AdPha President Tom Simpson pointed out that more reforms are necessary to ensure that pharmacy awards are suitable for the modern healthcare landscape.
"Without fairer remuneration, hospital pharmacy workforce shortages will continue, and patients stand to lose the most," Simpson stated.
He emphasised that hospital pharmacists and technicians play an essential role in delivering safe patient care, and their contributions to the healthcare system should not be undervalued.
"They work as part of an increasingly complex health environment ensuring the safe and quality use of medicines, and provide a myriad of clinical pharmacy services whether they are by the bedside, in the pharmacy, or in governance and systems roles," said Simpson.
While acknowledging the NSW Government and Health Services Union for taking this critical first step, Simpson expressed hope that both parties will collaborate on creating a more modern and effective pharmacy award.
"We look forward to seeing both sides commit to working together to improve the framework that supports our pharmacy workforce," he added, underlining the importance of ongoing reform to attract and retain skilled professionals in the field. JG
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