THE Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has launched a new comprehensive training program for pharmacists practising to an expanded scope.
The Pharmacist Prescribing Scope of Practice Training Program develops skills and expertise, with specialised prescribing and clinical practice training and a focus on the knowledge and skills needed to manage conditions within pharmacists' expanded scope.
After finishing the training, pharmacists can practise as part of a collaborative and person-centred approach for the management of patients' specific clinical conditions as approved within the scope of state and territory legislation.
At present, completing both components of the program will enable pharmaciststo provide clinical services as part of the Queensland Community Pharmacy Scope of Practice Pilot, and the program will form the basis for pharmacist training in other states and territories pending changes to legislation.
The program marks an important milestone in the PSA's growing support for pharmacists stepping up into prescribing roles, furthering the PSA's role as the key training and education provider for Australian pharmacists.
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim said Queensland's Scope of Practice Pilot lays the groundwork for what patient care could look like around the country.
"As our population ages and pressure on our health system increases, all health professionals need to be fully utilised," Associate Professor Sim said.
"As the peak body for pharmacists, PSA is ensuring pharmacists have the necessary training, support and recognition to succeed in these expanded roles.
"Enabling pharmacist prescribing in the management of common clinical conditions will enhance patient access to timely, expert care."
Assoc Prof Sim said the training programs are a critical step towards building the capability of the pharmacist workforce, and will equip them with the clinical skills and confidence to provide more comprehensive care.
"Queensland's Scope of Practice Pilot is laying the foundation for what pharmacist prescribing could look like across Australia, building the evidence base to show how pharmacist prescribing improves patient outcomes, strengthens our healthcare system, and creates a model for the rest of the country tofollow," Assoc Prof Sim said.
The Pharmacist Prescribing Scope of Practice Training Program is now available to all Australian pharmacists and can be accessed HERE. KB
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