EIGHT aspiring pharmacists are set to put their skills and knowledge to the test at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia's (PSA's) annual conference next month to compete for the Viatris Pharmacy Student of the Year (PSotY) title.
The finalists include the winners of the state and territory competitions, with James Cook University's Renee Buckland taking the wildcard slot.
The national final will see the students face a real-life clinical situation, where a patient will present with signs and symptoms or a specific product request.
The finalists will demonstrate their clinical knowledge and communication skills to identify the best course of action, tailoring their response to deliver the most appropriate advice, before a judging panel.
Incoming PSA National President, Dr Fei Sim, said the PSotY program was designed to encourage students to draw on their training and emotional intelligence to show their pharmacy skills.
"The PSotY awards are an opportunity for pharmacy students to practice and develop their skills in the kinds of real-world situations you would experience as a practising pharmacist," she said.
"I congratulate all the students who've participated in the competition this year for their hard work.
"It's exciting to see such talented students entering our profession and dedicating their lives to the health and wellbeing of their communities."
The finalists are:
Eden Brennen, University of Canberra, ACT.
Chloe Woodward, University of Newcastle, NSW.
Rheanna Norris, University of Queensland, Qld.
Irene Stergos, Charles Darwin University, SA/NT.
Haylee Shaw, University of Tasmania, Tas.
Hannah Barakat, La Trobe University, Vic.
Melissa Cato, University of Western Australia, WA.
Renee Buckland, James Cook University, Qld.
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