PHARMACY Technicians and Assistants Day was celebrated yesterday, with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) lauding the crucial support staff who ensure smooth operations and enhance the quality of care provided to patients every day.
"As the scope of practice for many pharmacists continues to expand, the role of pharmacy assistants and technicians is becoming even more integral to everything we do," said PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim.
"From administrative or backend support to direct patient interactions, their contribution to the overall team capacity and efficiency is invaluable," she stated.
Assoc Prof Sim highlighted the importance of supporting the technicians and assistants with training and upskilling opportunities, noting that the PSA is investing in this area.
"On this Pharmacy Technicians and Assistants Day, the PSA extends its heartfelt thanks to all pharmacy support staff for their tireless efforts and commitment to improving the health and well-being of Australians," Assoc Prof Sim concluded.
Meanwhile, Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) marked the day with the launch of the first Australasian Competency Standards Framework for Pharmacy Technicians in Hospitals and Health Services (2025).
"The launch of [the standards] marks another defining moment, paving the way for a stronger, more connected, and better supported pharmacy technician workforce," said AdPha President Assoc Prof Tom Simpson.
"Tasmania's leadership in pharmacy technician development is helping set the standard for the rest of Australia - demonstrating how empowering every member of the health workforce leads to better care for every patient."
Tasmanian Minister for Health Bridget Archer officiated at the launch, which took place at Launceston General Hospital.
"AdPha's competency standards will help technicians work to their full potential under pharmacist supervision, freeing pharmacists to focus on clinical care and improving patient outcomes," Archer said. KB
Pictured: Tom Simpson, Bridget Archer and Leah Di Guglielmo, Lead Pharmacy Technician at Launceston General Hospital.
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