Pharmacy Daily | Sim urges workforce growth

PHARMACISTS will continue to be in strong demand in the Australian health sector despite the short-term impact of policies like 60-day dispensing, according to Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President, Fei Sim.

Speaking to Pharmacy Daily in the lead-up to next month's Pharmacy Careers Summit, Sim said that while not wanting to downplay the negative consequences of the Government's policy backflip, the fundamentals of the industry remain unchanged.

"I remain optimistic," she said, noting that overall medicine use in Australia is on the rise, with more than $16 billion in PBS spending last year, not to mention billions more in the private market.

"We know that whenever medicines are used there is a risk of misadventure, and that at least 50% of medication-related hospitalisations can be avoided with the involvement of a pharmacist," she said.

Secondly Australia's ageing population also means there will be an upward trajectory on medication needs, highlighting the importance of equitable and safe access.

And finally, there's the key issue of Australia's GP access crisis.

"We know pharmacists and GPs work very well together on the ground, and we are fully supportive of our colleagues," she said.

"But when you look at primary care in Australia, pharmacists are key players...the average wait time to visit a GP has increased significantly, while just 14% of medical graduates plan to stay on the front line in general practice long term," PSA's President noted.

Sim highlighted the massive contribution made by pharmacists during the pandemic, with the profession having served patients across the community on the front line - including delivery so far of over 10.5 million COVID-19 jabs.

"COVID demonstrated the key role of pharmacists across a range of settings...our profession is vital wherever medicines are used."

Hundreds of people from across the industry have already signed up for the Pharmacy Careers Summit, with the free online event taking place on 04 Jul with presenters from banner groups, industry organisations, suppliers and more showcasing the opportunities in pharmacy - see pharmacycareerssummit.com.au.