MELBOURNE community pharmacist Anna Theophilos (pictured) has been chosen by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) as its inaugural 'Vaccination Ambassador' following a month-long nationwide search (PD 16 Jun).
Tasked with championing the role of pharmacist vaccinations, Theophilos will now work alongside the PSA to elevate this community message, promoting vaccination and pushing public confidence.
The PSA said Theophilos was selected for her passion, dedication and advocacy in the vaccination space, as well as her work ensuring aged care residents receive timely access to all National Immunisation Program and private vaccines.
"I'm incredibly honoured to be serving as the inaugural PSA National Vaccination Ambassador, a role that reflects my deep commitment to improving access to healthcare through immunisation delivery," she said.
Key to Theophilos' successful application is her work introducing digital tools to help aged care facilities identify gaps in vaccination coverage, data that is also provided to governing bodies.
Theophilos said pharmacists are well placed to lead this work, as trusted and accessible health professionals embedded in the communities they serve.
"I'm excited to work with PSA to champion our profession and help ensure every Australian has the opportunity to stay protected."
The PSA Vaccination Ambassador initiative has brought together leading vaccination manufacturers GSK, Pfizer, CSL Seqirus and Sanofi to champion the life-saving impact of pharmacist immunisation.
"Vaccination is one of the most important public health interventions and pharmacists are playing an increasingly essential role in enabling access, improving uptake and preventing disease," said CSL Seqirus Medical Director, Vaccines & Biosecurity, Dr Jules Bayliss.
"As an Australian company, CSL is proud to be supporting the PSA Vaccination Ambassador Program," she added. ML
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