AS THE first phase of the Federal Government's Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce Review opens for consultation, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the many roles pharmacists play across the health system.
Chair of PSA's Community of Speciality Interest, Interdisciplinary Team-Based Care, Debbie Rigby (pictured), is particularly encouraging credentialed pharmacists to contribute to PSA's submissions to the review.
"The workforce review is an opportunity to highlight how credentialed pharmacists can better help optimise medication management to the full extent of their skills and training," Rigby said.
"Home Medicines Reviews and Residential Medication Management Reviews have more than 25 years of practice and are entrenched in general practice.
"A growing number of pharmacists are working collaboratively in aged care and disability services."
She added that the Medical Services Advisory Committee supports funding pharmacists in First Nations Primary Health Services, and "we eagerly await the implementation of the aged care on-site pharmacists' program".
Many credentialed pharmacists have a wealth of experience and have built strong and trusted relationships with GPs.
"However, there are still problems with access and equity across all communities, including regional, rural & remote areas and disadvantaged populations," Rigby added.
"The evolution of medication reviews requires some blue sky thinking and strong advocacy.
"I'm pleased PSA is supporting credentialed pharmacists, listening to their views and strongly advocating for their interests."
Rigby encourages all credentialed pharmacists to join the Interdisciplinary Team-Based Care CSI group on Facebook and share their views and experiences. JG
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