PARKES pharmacist Lochie Pettiford (pictured) has been recognised for his dedication to mentoring pharmacy students in rural and regional areas.
The managing partner and Pharmacist in Charge of Parkes Pharmacy was awarded the inaugural Rural Pharmacy Preceptor Award by the School of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney in Nov.
He was nominated by students for his outstanding clinical placement support and supervision.
In 2024, university preceptors supported more than 1,200 students to complete almost 1,800 clinical placements.
"It was very surprising to be recognised but it's great to know the students who came here to Parkes enjoyed their time," Pettiford said.
"That's what we at Life Pharmacy Group strive to provide the students - an experience that's not just standing in the dispensary, it's about getting out and learning what pharmacies, particularly in rural environments, can achieve."
The University of Sydney Pharmacy School launched the student-nominated Pharmacy Preceptor Awards this year, to allow students from across all degree programs to nominate pharmacy preceptors who have made a significant impact on their clinical learning or development as a future health professional.
Preceptor awards were presented in five categories including community pharmacy preceptor, hospital pharmacy preceptor, rural/regional pharmacy preceptor and the Dean's Choice Award.
"These awards will help future students understand who offers good pharmacy placements and hopefully that encourages others to come out to the Central West and experience life here," Pettiford said.
Third-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student, Sonja, completed her placement in Parkes and said she left the placement feeling as though the country was home.
"The main thing that stood out to me was how he inspired us to be pharmacists of integrity and sincerity, and to always put patients first," Sonja said.
"Particularly in a town with limited access to doctors, Lochie showed us [the importance of a] pharmacist's role in the community was and how passionate he is towards consistently improving the quality of care, services provided and trust with patients." KB
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