THE Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler, announced the establishment of a new Masters of Pharmacy (Extended) qualification at last night's Pharmacy Guild of Australia Annual Parliamentary Dinner in Canberra.
The change means graduates of the new Level 9 Extended Masters of Pharmacy degree will earn the title of Doctor of Pharmacy.
It elevates the profession in line with the recognition bestowed on other health professionals such as physiotherapists, podiatrists, optometrists and dentists.
"This recognition significantly enhances the professional credibility of pharmacists and reinforces their critical role in community health within Australia and globally," Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey said.
"It provides recognition for the extended scope of clinical practice being undertaken by pharmacists and will be better for pharmacists, patients and primary healthcare.
The five-year program will include advanced training in areas like prescribing and chronic disease management, and graduates will be able to participate in the full scope of practice upon their registration.
"The Albanese government is delivering on a commitment to pharmacists who can now join other health professionals recognised with the title 'Doctor' when they finish an Extended Masters," Minister Butler said.
"Opportunities to extend the education and scope of a pharmacist's work will help attract and retain pharmacists in our workforce which means more pharmacists, happier pharmacists.
"Working in more places, providing more services and cheaper medicines to more Australians," he added.
"This can only be a good thing."
The Extended Masters degree was first mooted in September (PD 11 Sep). KB
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