THE Australasian College of Pharmacy has joined forces with Metagenics to launch a new accreditation program aimed at empowering pharmacists with the knowledge to incorporate natural medicines into their practice.
This partnership marks a step towards embracing an integrative approach in community healthcare, responding to the increasing demand for holistic treatment options by customers.
Through this collaboration, pharmacists across Australia will have access to a series of CPD-accredited training modules focusing on the integration of high-quality natural medicines.
Successfully completing the six-module course will not only earn pharmacists up to 17 CPD credits but also allow them to offer Metagenics products within their pharmacy clinic setting.
College CEO Melanie Hunt emphasised the importance of this education for pharmacists looking to expand their services and enhance patient care.
"This is an exciting time for Australian healthcare, with pharmacists playing a crucial role in delivering diverse services.
"Our partnership with Metagenics ensures communities have broader access to essential primary care," Hunt stated.
With the booming natural medicine industry now valued at $5.69 billion, Paula Hann, Regional Vice President of Metagenics Australia and New Zealand, highlighted the strategic advantage for pharmacists embracing this integrative care model.
"Pharmacists are pivotal in guiding patients through holistic health approaches.
"They are highly skilled and qualified medicines experts, who already assess, diagnose and treat common conditions every day and the additional Integrative Pharmacist Training Course that pharmacists can undertake to become qualified prescribers, will ensure that patients access only the best possible, integrative care," said Hann.
This initiative is especially timely, as it aligns with the growing consumer interest in combining natural and prescription medicines for overall wellbeing.
At least 70% of Australians utilise complementary medicines, with the vitamins, minerals and supplements sector in pharmacy having grown by 20.3% over three consecutive years, Hann concluded. JG
Pictured: Metagenics Hann and College's Hunt.
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