Pharmacy Daily | Diverse roles to tackle health needs

AUSTRALIA needs more pharmacists than ever, in the face of an ageing population and rising healthcare demands, according to the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA).

Speaking to Pharmacy Daily, PSA National President Fei Sim (pictured) emphasised the urgent need for innovative care models to tackle Australia's increasing healthcare challenges.

"Projections indicate that by 2026, over 22% of Australians will be above 65, resulting in higher health needs and reliance on medication," Sim said.

"To meet this demand, the healthcare system must evolve, and pharmacists have been identified as crucial to bolstering its capacity."

To address future health needs, the PSA is once again supporting the Pharmacy Daily and Raven's Recruitment Pharmacy Careers Summit 2024 (PCS2024) to equip the pharmacy community with vital educational and practice support.

"Regardless of their chosen path within pharmacy, professionals can look forward to numerous opportunities," Sim emphasised.

"Emerging roles are allowing pharmacists to provide innovative care for conditions like respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses, skin conditions, as well as chronic disease management, such as medication reconciliation and management reviews."

Sim added that as the profession expands its scope, pharmacists are increasingly offering prescribing services for ailments like urinary tract infections and skin conditions, as well as providing more vaccination and injection services.

Pharmacists also play a crucial role in supporting priority groups, including rural and remote areas, and First Nations people.

Sim reiterated the profession's work helps ease pressure on emergency departments and GPs.

Hospital pharmacists also ensure the safe use of medication across a variety of settings.

Credentialed pharmacists can contribute to more complex medication management and embed themselves in areas where medications are essential, she said.

To explore the diverse and evolving roles pharmacists undertake, register to attend the PCS2024 to be held on Fri 05 Jul, where Sim will join other leaders on the Careers Summit Leaders Panel to discuss the future of pharmacy.

The PSA will also present a session, 'A Bright Future for Every Pharmacist', exploring future roles.

To register, CLICK HERE. JG