AJP

Community pharmacists prone to isolation, stress

Sheshtyn Paola — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

With one in two pharmacists suffering from burnout and younger pharmacists at higher risk, peer support programs could help reduce stress and boost resilience, say researchers Community pharmacists are at ...

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Skin treatments to become “more accessible”

Sheshtyn Paola — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 07:32:05 +0000

Trained NSW pharmacists to treat four skin conditions in impending trial expansion, with increased remuneration for those providing consultations Participating pharmacists who undertake additional training will be able to supply ...

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Priority one cyber incidents on the rise: Fred IT

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 07:15:18 +0000

Cyber security experts are reporting an increase in “priority one” incidents in Australian pharmacies Community pharmacies are facing a significant increase in serious cyber threats, Andrew McManus, Fred IT Group’s ...

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Minister adds colour to pharmacy

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:15:44 +0000

Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Emma McBride, helps create “community masterpiece” at pharmacy Pharmacist-turned-federal politician, Emma McBride, has added the finishing touches to a mural at Gorokan Amcal ...

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Barnes backs CWH, Sigma merger

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Sun, 16 Jun 2024 07:07:08 +0000

Co-author of a review into pharmacy hopes ACCC “keeps an open mind” on Sigma’s proposed merger with Chemist Warehouse Plans to merge pharmaceutical wholesaler, Sigma Healthcare, with discount giant, Chemist ...

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The week in review

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 19:45:46 +0000

The ACCC’s Statement of Issues relating to Sigma’s proposed merger with Chemist Warehouse captured the headlines in recent days Almost six months to the day after Sigma Healthcare announced its ...

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Shingrix demand may have reached its peak

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:45:14 +0000

Initial demand for the Shingrix vaccine has been “much higher” than the Department of Health and Aged Care has seen for other jabs on the NIP an official says More ...

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The link between acne and diet: where are we now?

Chris Brooker — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:12:17 +0000

Evidence continues to grow on the role diet plays in acne, with certain food types linked to exacerbations, while others may be beneficial. Jala Moushi reviews the research Acne is ...

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Ozempic compounding ban no ‘knee-jerk’ reaction

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:45:54 +0000

Department defends recommendation to ban the compounding of semaglutide and tirepatide medications Moves to prohibit pharmacists from compounding replicas of Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirepatide) were not a “knee-jerk response” ...

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Could CWH/Sigma merger prompt retail pharmacy foreclosures?

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:30:10 +0000

ACCC highlights “foreclosure of retail pharmacies” among its concerns about the proposed Sigma and CWH merger The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) wants to take a closer look at ...

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The top ten

Chris Brooker — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:24:07 +0000

Agreement, budget and $1 discount demise capture our readers attention It was a month of big announcements and events – the federal budget, the 8CPA, Pharmacy Guild election upsets and ...

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Treasurer seeks pharmacy savings

AJP Staff — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:45:53 +0000

It’s 1984 and relations between the community pharmacy sector and the Labor government are somewhat less than cordial The Labor party appeared to be set on driving pharmacists onto the ...

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Access to emergency contraception ‘problematic’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:05:44 +0000

Almost a third of Australian community pharmacies do not stock ulipristal acetate emergency contraceptive pills, a study reveals Access to first-line emergency oral contraceptives is being described as “problematic” by researchers, ...

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June MIMS update

Guest Author — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 07:49:12 +0000

A look at some of the recent changes to the medicines landscape, with new products and indications New Products Avacopan (Tavneos) is a selective antagonist of the human complement 5a ...

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‘This is a pivotal moment for our profession’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 06:50:07 +0000

What do credentialed pharmacists think of the two new pharmacy agreements? AJP chats to some sector leaders… Deborah Hawthorne, 2023 consultant pharmacist of the year: “For too long, the majority ...

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Ownership of CWH stores ‘warrants urgent attention’: Guild

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 06:30:33 +0000

Guild calls for greater scrutiny of the ownership of Chemist Warehouse stores, as discounter pledges to cooperate with the ACCC Regulators are being urged by the Pharmacy Guild of ...

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PBS issues substitution update

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 06:15:48 +0000

Bufomix Easyhaler 400/12 will become substitutable with other PBS-listed brands from 1 July The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) has confirmed an error preventing Bufomix Easyhaler 400/12 (budesonide 400 microgram/actuation + ...

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Aged care salary: more or less?

Megan Haggan — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 06:01:15 +0000

Pharmacists embedded in aged care facilities won’t necessarily earn the full Government-funded amount, official confirms David Laffan, assistant secretary, pharmacy branch, Department of health and aged care, has told the ...

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CWH/Sigma merger ‘raises competition concerns’: ACCC

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 01:15:44 +0000

ACCC seeks further stakeholder submissions over Sigma’s planned merger with Chemist Warehouse The competition watchdog has listed a host of concerns about the proposed Sigma Healthcare and Chemist Warehouse merger, ...

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World News Wrapup – 13 June 2024

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:30:14 +0000

Political party pledges to deliver “fairer” pharmacy funding model; pharmacists call for OTC cannabis; and authorities issue kickback warning to pharmacies London, UK: Pharmacies in Britain could be in line ...

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Providing a UTI service: what NSW pharmacists need to know

Guest Author — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:46 +0000

From 1 June 2024, NSW pharmacists who meet certain conditions can provide treatment for UTIs to eligible patients The UTI component of the NSW Pharmacy Trial ceased on 31 May ...

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Emergency pharmacists speed up pain relief

Sheshtyn Paola — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:00:01 +0000

Pharmacists included on trauma response teams significantly improve speed and delivery of pain relievers to trauma patients, Melbourne trial finds The Pharmacists in Trauma (PHIT) Trial, conducted by Alfred Health ...

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Suspended sentence for Therapeutic Goods Act breaches

AJP Staff — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 06:45:08 +0000

Business owner handed a two-year suspended sentence for his role in the unlawful manufacture, supply and export of performance and image-enhancing drugs Businessman, Ryan Gregory McTeigue, has avoided time behind ...

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State backs pharmacy in budget

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:45:59 +0000

Funding is being made available to support pharmacists to access training to work to their full scope of practice in one state Queensland has announced a $6 million funding package ...

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Pushback on blue pill proposal

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:00:56 +0000

Sildenafil downschedule to OTC again proposed, but doctors’ group rejects pharmacy model in submission The TGA’s medicines scheduling committee will consider a proposal for 50mg sildenafil to become available as ...

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Withdrawal a ‘very rare’ reaction, argues college

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:00:11 +0000

Topical corticosteroids are safe and effective, urge leading dermatology and eczema organisations in response to recent media reports about topical steroid withdrawal ABC News Breakfast reported on topical steroid withdrawal ...

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Suspended Supercar enthusiast mortgages home at 36% interest

AJP Staff — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:06:59 +0000

A suspended Sydney pharmacist has mortgaged his home at a rate of 36% per annum, while a Supercars website run by his wife has disappeared from the internet The Australian ...

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30 oxycodone scripts in 88 days—and more

Megan Haggan — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 20:13:48 +0000

A pharmacist “failed in his role as gatekeeper” when he dispensed “vastly” excessive amounts of opioids and benzodiazepines to some patients, a tribunal has said The pharmacist appeared before the ...

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Research Roundup

Debbie Rigby — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 14:06:24 +0000

Debbie Rigby rounds up the latest in research news Intranasal antihistamines and corticosteroids in allergic rhinitis A systematic review and meta-analysis of 151 studies has concluded that most intranasal medications ...

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Pharmacy almost absent in honours list

Chris Brooker — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 18:15:52 +0000

Former TGA boss receives King’s Birthday honour alongside long-serving community pharmacists While a couple of long serving community pharmacists were recognised in the 2023 King’s Birthday honours list, it was ...

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Pharmacy or ‘phactory’

Bruce Annabel — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 03:52:05 +0000

Is your pharmacy really about patients and their care or is it a script processing factory/‘phactory’ for them? While there is strong evidence of organised production during ancient and medieval ...

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The week in review

Megan Haggan — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:08:39 +0000

What a huge week it’s been in pharmacy: not just for the community sector, but for the whole profession, with two Agreements signed There was big news out of Canberra ...

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Fostering a healthy community: flu vaccines and advice

Megan Haggan — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:06:31 +0000

As established advocates and administrators of vaccination, pharmacists play a vital role in promoting and supporting flu vaccination uptake. By Leanne Philpott KEY POINTS: Influenza is an acute viral infection ...

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Pharmacies to get 60-day back pay

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:30:37 +0000

Pharmacies will be able to access the new additional payments for PBS subsidised medications dispensed since 1 April 2024 once legislation relating to the 8CPA is passed New funding announced ...

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Questions remain over 8CPA, say shadow health ministers

Megan Haggan — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 03:00:47 +0000

The Albanese government was “forced” into the 8CPA, say shadow health minister Anne Ruston and shadow assistant minister for regional health Dr Anne Webster The pair have issued a statement ...

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‘Sweeping changes’ made without consultation

Megan Haggan — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:09:49 +0000

It’s 1954, and the AJP takes issue with the way the new National Health Service Regulations have been implemented: without asking pharmacists “The Commonwealth Minister of Health has said more ...

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Retailers slam junior pay rate move

Megan Haggan — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:49:16 +0000

A move by unions could discourage employers from hiring pharmacy assistants under certain circumstances, Guild says The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) has initiated legal action aimed at ...

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‘Particularly the chemist shop offence is serious’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:50:00 +0000

A teenager, who was among a group which robbed a pharmacy armed with baseball bats and machetes, has now had his application to appeal against his sentence denied The Supreme ...

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ACCC concerned about Icon Group expansion plans

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:45:45 +0000

The competition watchdog has raised concerns about Icon Group’s plans to pick up leases at three Australian hospitals The major supplier of radiation oncology and hospital pharmacy services wants to ...

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Lung patients going without medicines

Megan Haggan — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:15:07 +0000

Lung experts are calling for a suite of changes including cheaper medicines and affordable allied health, as new data shows drug costs are a barrier to care A new survey ...

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Poll: Is the 8CPA a good deal for community pharmacy?

AJP Staff — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:35:19 +0000

Pharmacies are set to share in the 8CPA’s $26.5 billion funding pool over the next five years, but is the deal enough to secure the viability of the sector? The ...

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‘Health should never be a political issue’: CAPS

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:30:16 +0000

CAPS gives 8CPA tacit welcome, but concerns about the impacts of 60-day dispensing remain Signing the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) is a “significant step by the government” to safeguard the ...

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Health minister to address PSA national conference

AJP Staff — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 01:51:18 +0000

Minister for health and aged care Mark Butler MP will again join pharmacists at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s National Conference PSA24 Butler will provide the ministerial address on behalf ...

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World news wrapup: 6 June 2024

Megan Haggan — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:02:55 +0000

Kiwis ready for reintroduction of copayment; French pharmacists walk off the job; Japan funds cancer pharmacy in East Jerusalem New Zealand: The Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand plans to ask ...

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MediSecure falls into administration after cyber attack

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 11:03:09 +0000

Hacked company had asked for Federal Government funding for data breach-related costs Digital script provider MediSecure has gone into voluntary administration, less than a month after a major data hack ...

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Victorians give pharmacy pilot stamp of approval

Megan Haggan — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 09:22:18 +0000

More than 10,000 consultations have now been delivered as part of the Victorian government’s Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas has visited Lim’s Pharmacy in Springvale – ...

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Negotiations continue for CSO deal

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:45:45 +0000

New agreement for wholesalers on the horizon following signing of 8CPA Funding for the distribution of medicines through Community Service Obligation wholesalers will be allocated through a new deal outside ...

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Profession needs advanced degree programs

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 04:30:09 +0000

Council of Pharmacy Schools gives “in principle” support to the Doctor of Pharmacy measure in 8CPA Commitments from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the government to work towards establishing ...

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‘White-coat warriors’ secured 8CPA

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 03:45:04 +0000

Ben Casey-clad pharmacist activists are being hailed as “warriors” for forcing the government to negotiate the 8CPA Pharmacists who staged protests in Sydney and Canberra against the government’s 60-day dispensing ...

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Discount group rounds up change for bowel cancer

AJP Staff — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:00:08 +0000

Star Discount Chemist has joined the Jodi lee Foundation to help prevent bowel cancer through a new Round Up campaign Patients making purchases in store at Star Discount Chemist outlets ...

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Greener asthma choice update

Megan Haggan — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:11:27 +0000

Good asthma control and more environmentally friendly choices don’t have to be mutually exclusive, say asthma experts The National Asthma Council Australia (NAC) has released new information in time for ...

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Boost needed for pharmacy diabetes role

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:11:21 +0000

Pharmacists in rural and remote locations need more financial support and education to service travellers who have diabetes needs, research finds Rural and remote pharmacies are often the first port ...

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I’ve just received an Ahpra notification: What now?

Megan Haggan — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:15:05 +0000

PDL offers some advice – and breaks down some misconceptions – about receiving a notification from the regulator When pharmacists receive regulatory notifications, a range of common misconceptions can cloud ...

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‘Pharmacists have signed up to 60-day scripts’: Albanese

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 06:50:11 +0000

Community pharmacy gets $2.1 billion 60-day dispensing compensation package as part of 8CPA Australia’s community pharmacy sector is set to receive $2.111 over the five years to 30 June 2029, ...

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8CPA good, but pharmacy can push for more: Kelly

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 06:45:05 +0000

In-coming Guild branch committee member calls on pharmacy owners to unite and focus on rebuilding the profession’s reputation following the signing of the 8CPA Newly elected Pharmacy Guild of Australia ...

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Criminal history feedback wanted

Megan Haggan — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:28:04 +0000

Ahpra and the Boards want health professionals to weigh in on the draft criminal history registration standard The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the National Boards have invited members ...

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Comprehensive standards of practice essential: SHPA

Megan Haggan — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 04:49:05 +0000

Hospital pharmacists call for extended use of the specialty Standards of Practice under the new strategic agreement between PSA and the government The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia has ...

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Engaging pharmacists in the ‘fight against tobacco’

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 03:43:44 +0000

WHO and FIP jointly call for pharmacists to be upskilled to effectively deliver tobacco cessation interventions Pharmacists can play an important role in tobacco cessation because they collectively reach millions ...

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Management of pelvic pain: when is it more than period pain?

Jan Decomps — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 03:40:46 +0000

Jean Hailes’ gynaecologist Dr Pav Nanayakkara & physiotherapist Amy Steventon discuss optimal pelvic pain management in pharmacy 25 June 2024 | 7-8.00PM AEST How might pelvic pain in women present, ...

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Research Roundup

Debbie Rigby — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 14:03:21 +0000

Debbie Rigby rounds up the latest in research news What do we know about covid-19’s effects on the gut? Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in both acute and long covid, with ...

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Zactin Tabs shortage set to continue

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:45:15 +0000

TGA extends fluoxetine substitution instrument in response to ongoing manufacturing issues Supply shortages impacting Zactin Tabs (fluoxetine 20mg dispersible tablets) are expected to continue until 30 June 2024, the medication’s ...

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Tasmania recognises its best

Megan Haggan — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:49:03 +0000

A pharmacist who “hates a fuss” has been named Tasmania’s pharmacist of the year Kristina Fox has been named Tasmanian Pharmacist of the Year at an awards night hosted at ...

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Concerns raised over pharmacy business models

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:45:40 +0000

AHPRA set to focus on practitioners who put profits before patient welfare Emerging models of care designed to provide consumers with predetermined medications are raising concerns for healthcare regulators. ...

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PSA gets own profession-wide Agreement

Megan Haggan — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 03:47:43 +0000

Pharmacist group signs its own Agreement with the Albanese government, as discussions continue for programs not under the 8CPA’s remit The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has welcomed the signing of ...

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Pharmacy agreements ‘a win for patients’: Butler

Megan Haggan — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 02:31:20 +0000

Health minister Mark Butler announces not one, but two new pharmacy agreements In a statement today (3 June 2024), Butler confirmed that the Albanese Government and the Pharmacy Guild of ...

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8CPA signed

Megan Haggan — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:10:08 +0000

It’s here: the long-awaited Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement has just been signed, with a focus on cost of living Update: Health minister Mark Butler has announced that a new and ...

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Determining if it is a cold or hayfever in the winter months

Guest Author — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 07:14:41 +0000

As we enter the cooler months you may see an increase in customers coming through your doors displaying symptoms of sneezing and a runny nose. But depending on the cause ...

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New pharmacist accreditation puts the spotlight on natural medicines

Guest Author — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:10:17 +0000

As pharmacists start to evaluate their end of year accreditation, Chief Pharmacist, Suzanna Nash at Australasian College of Pharmacy says there are opportunities for those pharmacists wanting to evolve their ...

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An age old problem

Megan Haggan — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:05:57 +0000

Communication – with patients, families and carers, as well as with other health professionals – is key when it comes to managing pain in older people living in residential aged ...

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The dry cough stops here. An effective dry cough solution.

Guest Author — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:01:41 +0000

Recommend Rikodeine to your patients to help put a stop to their stubborn dry cough. Cough is a common symptom for which people seek the advice of a pharmacist. Pharmacists ...

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The week in review

Megan Haggan — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:01:19 +0000

It’s been another busy week in pharmacy, with business news from Fred IT, Sigma and MedAdvisor, plus protests about pay Sigma Healthcare‘s Annual General Meeting saw shareholders split over plans ...

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Practice Spotlight – How to assist cough customers

Guest Author — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:01:10 +0000

Pharmacists aim to support and guide customers to the appropriate recommendation by determining first if a cough is productive or dry. Acute cough is a common symptom that requires input ...

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It is important to ensure customers are getting enough calcium, no matter their stage of life

Guest Author — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:01:10 +0000

Our Calcium requirements change over the course of our lifetime. For adults, both men and women, it is important to build and maintain bone mass as you age. This means ...

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Fly-tipping pharmacist issued warning over patient privacy

Megan Haggan — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:25:28 +0000

A British pharmacist has been warned after he illegally dumped bags of rubbish, including private and personal patient details, on the street The UK’s General Pharmaceutical Council has considered the ...

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‘We have never been more advanced’: Sigma chair

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 31 May 2024 05:05:10 +0000

Sigma bosses have told investors it’s in a strong position to improve its value, even if the CWH merger is blocked by the competition watchdog At the company’s Annual General ...

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CWH owners continue climb up ‘Rich List’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 31 May 2024 04:45:06 +0000

Chemist Warehouse co-founders Jack and Sam Gance and Mario Verrocchi’s wealth is on the rise ahead of a potential merger with Sigma Healthcare Double dispensing is having little impact on ...

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Camphor, cocaine and strychnine: welcome to 1914

Megan Haggan — Thu, 30 May 2024 14:04:12 +0000

The Australasian Journal of Pharmacy’s May 1914 edition featured fines for selling poor-quality paraffin, the International Opium Convention and a crackdown on strychnine We began with an article on Bacteriology ...

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Pay and career path stagnation sparks strike

Megan Haggan — Thu, 30 May 2024 07:46:45 +0000

Hospital pharmacists were among a wide range of health workers who have gone on strike in WA, protesting about their pay and conditions Members of the Health Services Union WA ...

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‘First strike’ against big pay day for Sigma CEO

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 30 May 2024 07:00:01 +0000

Plans to try and retain Sigma Healthcare’s chief executive with a cash payment of up to $2 million if the Chemist Warehouse merger fails have split the wholesaler’s shareholders Sigma’s ...

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‘Stop playing politics with small business’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 30 May 2024 06:45:46 +0000

Government’s $20,000 instant asset write of not enough to secure Senate support, crossbencher warns Small businesses are being left in the lurch as politicians seek to score points on budget ...

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APC’s new leadership team announced

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 30 May 2024 06:20:12 +0000

The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) has confirmed the appointment of Professor Sarah Roberts-Thomson as its new chair Roberts-Thomson, the deputy executive dean academic at the University of Sydney’s faculty of ...

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Pharmacy fined over Ozempic advertising

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 30 May 2024 06:15:35 +0000

Western Sydney pharmacy hit with a fine of more than $18,000 in relation to alleged unlawful advertising of Ozempic The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued an infringement notice of $18,780 ...

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‘We hope to pave the way for more pharmacist-researchers’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 30 May 2024 05:43:06 +0000

Many patients are prescribed opioids for hip and knee pain – but can pharmacists help them taper safely before replacement surgery? Two pharmacists have just been awarded a grant to ...

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WA community pharmacy OCP resupply pilot

Guest Author — Thu, 30 May 2024 05:30:55 +0000

From 28 May 2024, pharmacists in Western Australia can supply women who meet certain criteria with a resupply of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) without a doctor’s prescription Pharmacists who ...

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Family violence inconsistent with being a ‘fit and proper person’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 30 May 2024 03:04:52 +0000

A former pharmacist, whose registration was suspended at the time, threw acetone on his partner and threatened to burn the other man’s home down The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal ...

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World news wrapup: 30 May 2024

Megan Haggan — Wed, 29 May 2024 14:04:23 +0000

Kiwis call for Australian-style pseudoephedrine database; UK National Service teens could do pharmacy work; French pharmacists to strike and protest New Zealand: A petition calling for the launch of a ...

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‘It is time to stop admiring the problem’

Megan Haggan — Wed, 29 May 2024 12:16:30 +0000

SHPA welcomes patient-focused recommendations in rare cancers Senate report, noting the PBS currently fails many patients The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) says it welcomes the release of ...

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First Qld contraceptive Pill pilot services to start July

Megan Haggan — Wed, 29 May 2024 08:04:14 +0000

The number of Queensland women accessing UTI services through communities has ballooned to over 10,000, the Guild says “In just over one year, there have been 10,148 occasions of service ...

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‘Tomorrow is never promised’

Megan Haggan — Wed, 29 May 2024 07:56:18 +0000

Determined to help save the lives of people like the brother she lost, one intern has used her health promotion requirement to get naloxone into homes After completing her Bachelors ...

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Telstra to acquire Fred IT

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 29 May 2024 06:45:12 +0000

Guild set to sell its stake in Fred to joint venture partner, Telstra Health Pharmacy technology provider, Fred IT Group is set to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Telstra, with ...

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AEC confirms Guild election results

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 29 May 2024 06:30:27 +0000

CAPS victories confirmed as fresh faces take seats on Guild branch committees Results of 13 contested ballots for Pharmacy Guild of Australia branch committee seats have been confirmed by the ...

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Pharmacist numbers continue to grow

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 29 May 2024 06:15:41 +0000

Pharmacist registration numbers hit new high, Pharmacy Board of Australia data reveals Australia has more registered pharmacists than ever before, new data from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) ...

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‘Imagine the impact pharmacists will have when you are regularly on-site’

Sheshtyn Paola — Wed, 29 May 2024 02:00:35 +0000

Top-ranked complaints to aged care commission over the past decade could be addressed by on-site pharmacists, says leading expert Pharmacists have visited over 400 services across the country, providing education ...

The post ‘Imagine the impact pharmacists will have when you are regularly on-site’ appeared first on AJP.

Election delivers sweeping change to NSW Guild

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 29 May 2024 01:30:21 +0000

Advocacy group CAPS claims its candidates have secured five seats on the Guild NSW branch committee, toppling a number of incumbents Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW branch president, David Heffernan, ...

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Vaping cessation aids on the horizon

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 28 May 2024 08:00:08 +0000

Approved cessation products to help treat nicotine vaping withdrawal will be legally available without a script following scheduling decision Nicotine replacement therapy to help people quit vaping nicotine may become ...

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Patients back scope expansion

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 28 May 2024 07:45:34 +0000

State government urged to empower pharmacists to work to their full potential Patients in NSW want pharmacists and paramedics to provide a broader range of healthcare, research reveals. The results ...

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Another state launches pill resupply pilot

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 28 May 2024 07:45:09 +0000

Pharmacists in Western Australia to resupply oral contraceptives as part of 12-month trial Western Australia is the latest jurisdiction to announce a pilot program enabling pharmacists to provide women with ...

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Changes confirmed

Chris Brooker — Tue, 28 May 2024 07:26:14 +0000

A raft of interim scheduling decisions have been confirmed, with some new Pharmacy, and Pharmacist Only, products A number of scheduling changes, announced as interim decisions earlier this year, have ...

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No change to paracetamol

Chris Brooker — Tue, 28 May 2024 06:54:28 +0000

TGA rules out a general sale option for small effervescent, child resistant, paracetamol packs The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has confirmed a preliminary decision to reject a proposal to allow ...

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AI will ‘ease burden’ on pharmacists

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:30:53 +0000

Artificial intelligence platform to aid pharmacists in supporting patients Pharmacists are set to benefit from an artificial intelligence (AI) platform currently being developed by MedAdvisor, the company’s chief financial officer ...

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The latest events

AJP Staff — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:20:28 +0000

We look at some of the major upcoming events in the pharmacy calendar PSA24: Your pathway to progress It’s little more than a month until PSA24, Australia’s premier educational beacon ...

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Pharmacy hit by shock flood

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 27 May 2024 05:45:01 +0000

Dispensary shelves and an external wall collapsed in a shopping centre pharmacy after a water tank burst, flooding the premises A clean-up operation is underway at a pharmacy in Perth’s ...

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Let pharmacists say no to 60-day scripts: CAPS

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 27 May 2024 03:55:30 +0000

Pharmacists need to be allowed to decline to dispense 60-day supplies of medications to address shortages, advocacy group says Australia’s medicines pricing model and the introduction of 60-day dispensing are ...

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The week in review

Megan Haggan — Fri, 24 May 2024 14:05:25 +0000

Big news in the diabetes and weight loss world this week, with a crackdown on the compounding of Ozempic and Mounjaro Compounding pharmacies are set to be prohibited from producing ...

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Covid: Has it really been so long?

Chris Brooker — Fri, 24 May 2024 13:47:47 +0000

It’s now been four years since the Covid-19 pandemic was declared. It has driven changes in pharmacy, as in so much of healthcare, and indeed society. Where are we currently ...

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Regulation strengthened in the West

Megan Haggan — Fri, 24 May 2024 08:33:07 +0000

Changes to the National Law as it applies in WA have been passed and enacted The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the national Boards say this means further strengthening ...

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$10k boost for Tassie’s public hospital pharmacists

Megan Haggan — Fri, 24 May 2024 07:47:44 +0000

Patients are being let down by pharmacy workforce shortages – but in a bid to attract and keep pharmacists, a new initiative will see them paid $10k Guy Barnett, Tasmania’s ...

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‘We tried to tell them’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 24 May 2024 07:45:53 +0000

Data from a CBA report suggests patients are feeling the forecast impacts of 60-day dispensing, pharmacists claim Pharmacists are questioning why anyone would be surprised by the findings of the ...

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New sexual dysfunction warnings added to antidepressants’ PI

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 24 May 2024 06:30:25 +0000

Health professionals are advised to consider current or previous antidepressant use in patients reporting sexual dysfunction Updated product information documents (PIs) for nine antidepressant medications will include warnings relating to ...

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It’s time to elevate the pharmacy profession: FIP

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 24 May 2024 05:15:17 +0000

The global body says pharmacists need greater recognition as healthcare professionals, as opposed to commercial entities The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has launched a global campaign called “Think Health, Think ...

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Pharmacists join CEO Sleepout

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 24 May 2024 05:00:26 +0000

Home comforts to be sacrificed to support homeless patients Pharmacists will be among more than 1452 business leaders who will be swapping their beds for cardboard boxes across the country ...

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‘Some pretty extravagant claims have been made’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 23 May 2024 14:03:41 +0000

Ethics, “neurotic housewives” abusing laxatives and a crackdown on medicines advertising: in this week’s look at pharmacy history, we’re living in the 70s May 1974 was a busy month for ...

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Arrest after armed robbery

AJP Staff — Thu, 23 May 2024 12:28:04 +0000

A man has been charged after he brought a fake gun to a pharmacy and demanded medication Manningham Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following an alleged armed ...

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Navigating the pitfalls of social media

Guest Author — Thu, 23 May 2024 07:12:18 +0000

It’s an integral part of our professional and personal lives, but for health professionals, it also has its hazards. PDL advises on use of social media… Social media has become ...

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Shortages a ‘major vulnerability’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 23 May 2024 07:02:32 +0000

Some specialists are only finding out about medicines shortages when alerted by pharmacists, patients or social media In its submission to the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s consultation on medicines shortages, the ...

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TGA continues cannabis advertising clampdown

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 23 May 2024 06:45:14 +0000

Regulator targets medicinal cannabis pharmacy over alleged unlawful advertising The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued nine infringement notices totalling $164,460 to Victorian pharmacy, Better Leaf Pty Ltd, over alleged unlawful ...

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Pharmacy spending on the rise

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 23 May 2024 06:33:31 +0000

Price rises in pharmacy are outpacing other essentials, a new report shows Patients’ out-of-pocket spending in pharmacies is rising faster than in other primary healthcare settings, data from the Commonwealth ...

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Budget delivers ‘wins’ for pharmacy

Guest Author — Thu, 23 May 2024 05:30:37 +0000

Pharmacy owners will have plenty to think about following last week’s Federal Budget, Marcus Evitt of Peak Strategies says Labour Treasurer, Jim Chalmers’ has released the 2024-2025 federal budget, focusing ...

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MedAdvisor on track for first profit

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 23 May 2024 03:30:59 +0000

New transaction fees for vaccinations and Project Stop have MedAdvisor on route to record an inaugural net profit after tax Medication software provider MedAdvisor Solutions says it’s on course to ...

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World news wrapup – 23 May 2024

AJP Staff — Wed, 22 May 2024 17:01:09 +0000

British pharmacists call for authority to substitute medications; pharmacist plans return to Gaza days after evacuations; Candian patients want more from their pharmacy. London, UK: Pharmacists in the UK are ...

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A new era looms

Chris Brooker — Wed, 22 May 2024 07:50:38 +0000

SHPA announces its new constitution has been adopted, with a change to its board and a new Trans Tasman deal Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) members have voted ...

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Compounding ban ‘a significant public health concern’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 22 May 2024 06:30:07 +0000

Government urged to roll back its ban on compounding weight loss drugs Banning the compounding of glucagon-like peptide-2 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) medications will limit patient access to the weight loss ...

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Government acts on compounding concerns

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 22 May 2024 04:45:28 +0000

Compounding exemptions for diabetes medications, Ozempic and Mounjaro, will be removed from 1 October, minister reveals Compounding pharmacies will be barred from producing replicas of Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirazapetide) ...

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Western Sydney pharmacy scoops banner’s top award

AJP Staff — Wed, 22 May 2024 03:30:33 +0000

Having collected two Pharmacy of the Year titles at APP in March, a Western Sydney store has added to its 2024 award haul Emerton Pharmacy has added the Amcal Pharmacy ...

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‘Now is the time to review your business’

Guest Author — Wed, 22 May 2024 02:00:03 +0000

Major changes to the Pharmacy Business Ownership Act 2024 will have several impacts on Queensland pharmacy owners, writes Lachlan Ballinger In December 2023, the Queensland Government took a significant step ...

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Concern over low contraception use with oral retinoids

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 21 May 2024 08:00:42 +0000

Only one in four women of reproductive age who are dispensed oral retinoids are accessing PBS-listed contraception, despite teratogenic risks, according to a new Australian study While rates of oral ...

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Protecting personal information ‘top priority’: Kind

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 21 May 2024 07:15:47 +0000

MediSecure data breach, a reminder for businesses to be vigilant of cyber threats Pharmacies and other businesses should review the customer data they hold and delete unnecessary information to protect ...

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‘What an exciting time to be a pharmacist!’

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 21 May 2024 06:00:40 +0000

Pharmacy conference scholarships spark career inspiration for students, while five recipients of expanded Indigenous pharmacist scholarship announced NACCHO has announced five successful recipients of the 2024 Aboriginal and Torres Strait ...

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Quality trumps quantity for brand growth

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 21 May 2024 04:00:38 +0000

Expansion will not come at the expense of the brand’s reputation, a leading banner group says Sigma Healthcare is “not just chasing numbers”, in its efforts to expand its Amcal ...

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Don’t worry about the stickers…

Angelo Pricolo — Tue, 21 May 2024 01:19:01 +0000

Pharmacists are in an invidious position when combating erroneous or confusing medicine labels, with consumers, manufacturers and regulators all seeming to make the job more difficult There is no doubt ...

The post Don’t worry about the stickers… appeared first on AJP.

Research Roundup

Debbie Rigby — Mon, 20 May 2024 14:09:46 +0000

Debbie Rigby takes a look at the latest in research news Significant use of non-evidence-based therapeutics in a cohort of Australian fibromyalgia patients Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterised by ...

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Embrace the future

Chris Brooker — Mon, 20 May 2024 07:45:18 +0000

The future of hospital pharmacy is “undeniably intertwined with the evolution of AI”, say academics Pharmacists should “embrace and lead the agenda” in using artificial intelligence as supportive tools to ...

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MediSecure attack unlikely to be last

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 20 May 2024 05:30:54 +0000

Healthcare businesses urged to be vigilant following last week’s large-scale data breach of e-script provider MediSecure National Cyber Security Coordinator, Lieutenant General Michelle McGuinness, is warning healthcare providers that while ...

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Let us ‘finish the job’: Guild leader

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 20 May 2024 05:15:21 +0000

With negotiations for the 8CPA ongoing one Guild state branch leader says “it is vital” that those currently involved in the process are backed in the organisation’s ongoing election Pharmacy ...

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Budget gets mixed review from CAPS

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:30:12 +0000

Temporary freezes on PBS co-payments and the introduction of a 3.6% indexation on dispensing fees are welcome steps but government could have gone further, advocacy group claims Tuesday’s Federal Budget ...

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The Week in Review

AJP Staff — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:00:19 +0000

Tuesday night’s Federal Budget dominated the week’s news with Treasurer Jim Chalmers revealing an insight into what to expect from the 8CPA The week started with the National Australian Pharmacy ...

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Decoding data for success

Guest Author — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:16:37 +0000

Having data-informed marketing strategy and analysis is essential for getting the best outcomes, says Sarah Rendell When it comes to pharmacists and marketing, I often come across this common assumption ...

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Script data breach exposes third-party vulnerabilities

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 17 May 2024 06:55:04 +0000

E-script provider hit with large-scale ransomware data breach Cyber security experts say a major data breach affecting customers of script provider MediSecure is a nationally significant incident, which will test ...

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Dollar discount decision ‘weak-kneed’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 17 May 2024 06:45:07 +0000

Government accused of caving to the demands of the Guild with Federal Budget measure Changes to the dollar discount announced in Tuesday’s Federal Budget are being viewed as the government giving ...

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Achoo: advice for navigating cough and cold season

Megan Haggan — Fri, 17 May 2024 06:44:34 +0000

The cough and cold category is the perfect opportunity to tailor treatment and self-care advice, differentiating the pharmacy from other retailers, writes Leanne Philpott KEY POINTS: Adults have on average ...

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Same jab, same pay plea

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 17 May 2024 06:15:01 +0000

Local government vaccination service providers should receive the same fees as pharmacies for administering shots, a politician says Former nurse turned politician, Georgie Crozier, is calling on the Victorian government ...

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‘Intolerable and unsatisfactory’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 16 May 2024 14:57:28 +0000

Is it “Bolshevik” to stay open late? Our 1924 edition had some thoughts… “Referring to early closing, whether we pharmacists compare unfavourably with the self-sacrificing dentist or the heroic estate ...

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Budget 2024-5: SHPA reacts

Megan Haggan — Thu, 16 May 2024 07:32:27 +0000

SHPA welcomes wins for First Nations people and older Australians as cost-of-living budget improves medicines access The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) is celebrating a Budget measure that ...

The post Budget 2024-5: SHPA reacts appeared first on AJP.

Wesfarmers Health supports Federal Budget’s ‘cheaper medicine’ moves

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 16 May 2024 07:00:50 +0000

Wesfarmers backs the government’s efforts to ease medicines costs for patients Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API) owner Wesfarmers Health has welcomed measures in Tuesday’s Federal Budget aimed at making medicines more ...

The post Wesfarmers Health supports Federal Budget’s ‘cheaper medicine’ moves appeared first on AJP.

Hospital pharmacists respond to misleading titles query

Megan Haggan — Thu, 16 May 2024 06:45:07 +0000

It’s understandable that doctor groups have asked for clarification about recognition of advanced pharmacy practice, says a leading pharmacist The Australian Medical Association has reached out to the Society of ...

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May MIMS update

Guest Author — Thu, 16 May 2024 05:24:49 +0000

A look at some of the recent changes to the medicines landscape, with new products, indications and contraindications New Product Nelarabine (Nelarabine‑Reach) is a pro‑drug of the deoxyguanosine analogue ara‑G. ...

The post May MIMS update appeared first on AJP.

Budget a fail for NAPSA

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 16 May 2024 04:45:01 +0000

Pharmacy students to continue push for access to placement payments Opportunities to bolster diversity within the pharmacy profession is being hindered by the government’s failure to extend its Commonwealth Prac ...

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Removing dollar discount ‘a backward step’: CWH

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 16 May 2024 03:45:55 +0000

Budget measure will increase medication costs for vulnerable patients, discounter warns Government plans to phase out the dollar discount on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listed products, are “an anti-competitive backward step”, ...

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‘Real close’ to 8CPA deal: Guild

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 16 May 2024 03:30:33 +0000

Guild leaders confident they are close to securing a deal for the 8CPA Following Tuesday night’s Federal Budget pharmacy owners are being urged to get ready for an announcement on ...

The post ‘Real close’ to 8CPA deal: Guild appeared first on AJP.

‘That perception is one of the biggest things I’m fighting to change’

Megan Haggan — Thu, 16 May 2024 01:30:43 +0000

They have an “inherited malignant” condition that’s often unfairly deemed to be their own fault – but this pharmacist and her colleagues are helping them take back control It was ...

The post ‘That perception is one of the biggest things I’m fighting to change’ appeared first on AJP.

World news wrapup: 16 May 2024

Megan Haggan — Wed, 15 May 2024 14:05:27 +0000

NZ pharmacies investigated over vaccinations; another sentence over 2012 US fungal meningitis case; Nigerian pharmacists allege harassment South Island, New Zealand: Three South Island pharmacies are under investigation following reports ...

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No ‘golden ticket’ for reducing risky meds harm

Sheshtyn Paola — Wed, 15 May 2024 08:00:54 +0000

High-risk prescribing in aged care residents under the spotlight, as Australian experts weigh in on the role of embedded pharmacists Polypharmacy and the use of potentially inappropriate medicines (PIMs) in ...

The post No ‘golden ticket’ for reducing risky meds harm appeared first on AJP.

TGA issues SSSI for abatacept

AJP Staff — Wed, 15 May 2024 07:45:10 +0000

Pharmacists authorised to substitute Orencia 125mg/mL products to deal with shortages The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) in response to shortages of both ...

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Demise of dollar discount ‘goes against the grain’

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 15 May 2024 05:45:51 +0000

Price freezes for PBS co-payments welcomed, but think tank queries benefits of ditching the dollar discount Experts from the Grattan Institute are questioning the government’s decision to phase out the ...

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NIPVIP payments to be indexed to MBS

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 15 May 2024 05:15:55 +0000

Government to invest $631.1 million to support access to vaccination services Fees paid to pharmacists for administering vaccinations through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) will be indexed in line with ...

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Appeal knocked back after cannabis theft

Megan Haggan — Wed, 15 May 2024 05:02:55 +0000

A young person has escaped conviction after they stole more than $200,000 worth of medicinal cannabis from a pharmacy The Courier Mail reports that alongside six other people armed with ...

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Budget provides 8CPA preview

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 14 May 2024 13:30:52 +0000

Government announces $480 million package to improve access to medicines and cut out-of-pocket spending as part of Budget 2024 Pharmacists have been given insight into what to expect from the ...

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Much-needed relief

Megan Haggan — Tue, 14 May 2024 12:55:52 +0000

The stakeholder organisations react to the 2024-5 Budget The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia: PSA says it welcomes the freeze on indexation for at least a year ensuring that the cost ...

The post Much-needed relief appeared first on AJP.

Poll: Budget 2024-5

Megan Haggan — Tue, 14 May 2024 12:30:56 +0000

There’s no doubt that there’s a lot going on in the pharmacy sector right now. But does the 2024-5 Federal Budget address any of your concerns? It’s been billed as ...

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Budget outlines 8CPA with $480m for cheaper medicines

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 14 May 2024 10:25:37 +0000

PBS co-payment freeze, $1 discount to be phased out, and cap on dose administration aids increased as part of tonight’s federal Budget Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, has unveiled a $480.2 million ...

The post Budget outlines 8CPA with $480m for cheaper medicines appeared first on AJP.

Pharmacy gets new patron

AJP Staff — Tue, 14 May 2024 08:50:14 +0000

Monarch marks coronation anniversary by becoming patron of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles III has become the third successive British monarch to be ...

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International Consensus 2023 strongly recommends antihistamines for allergic rhinitis treatmenti

Guest Author — Tue, 14 May 2024 07:14:41 +0000

What is allergic rhinitis? Commonly referred to as ‘hayfever’, allergic rhinitis is the most common allergic disorder in Australia and often underdiagnosed, undertreated and sub-optimally self-treated.ii Allergic rhinitis may be ...

The post International Consensus 2023 strongly recommends antihistamines for allergic rhinitis treatmentⁱ appeared first on AJP.

UTIs in NSW: ‘Business as usual’ move

Megan Haggan — Tue, 14 May 2024 05:45:08 +0000

The NSW UTI service has seen “incredible demand” and is now to be made a permanent service, available from any eligible pharmacist across the state According to a statement from ...

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Severe reactions linked to ‘compounded’ Ozempic

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 14 May 2024 04:45:18 +0000

Patient violently ill and vomiting blood after taking illegally compounded Ozempic from an online pharmacy Products being sold as compounded Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are being linked to severe side ...

The post Severe reactions linked to ‘compounded’ Ozempic appeared first on AJP.

Research Roundup

Debbie Rigby — Mon, 13 May 2024 14:06:01 +0000

Debbie Rigby rounds up the latest in research news Diagnosis and treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum Treatments for hyperemesis gravidarum is aimed at the alleviation of symptoms. Treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum ...

The post Research Roundup appeared first on AJP.

PDL names student grants recipients

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 13 May 2024 06:45:37 +0000

PDL, announces three winners of its 2024 Student Grants Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL) will provide funding to three students to attend major conferences this year through its Student Grants program. ...

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NAPSA lobbies MPs ahead of Budget

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Mon, 13 May 2024 06:30:41 +0000

NAPSA branches target Labor MPs to push for expansion of Commonwealth Prac Payments Pharmacy students are being urged to “keep up the good fight” in their campaign to secure ...

The post NAPSA lobbies MPs ahead of Budget appeared first on AJP.

Full scope of practice: Mirage or oasis?

Bruce Annabel — Sun, 12 May 2024 05:10:30 +0000

Full scope of practice has been touted as a panacea for pharmacy. Is it the lush oasis of the promised land, or merely a dusty mirage? A few decades ago, ...

The post Full scope of practice: Mirage or oasis? appeared first on AJP.

The week in review

Megan Haggan — Fri, 10 May 2024 14:09:27 +0000

Placement poverty, movement in the credentialled pharmacist space and shortage updates all made the news this week Organisations are urging the Albanese government to pass legislation restricting access to vapes, ...

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Bringing menopause out of the shadows

Megan Haggan — Fri, 10 May 2024 14:06:47 +0000

The overwhelming list of symptoms, treatment choices, and misinformation can leave many patients muddled when it comes to menopause, writes Leanne Philpott Menopause isn’t ‘secret women’s business’—at least it shouldn’t ...

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Investors deemed vulnerable if Sigma/CWH deal fails

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 10 May 2024 06:45:13 +0000

Analyst warns Sigma share price could take a hit if Chemist Warehouse merger is blocked Sigma Healthcare investors could be exposed to downside risk if the competition watchdog doesn’t approve ...

The post Investors deemed vulnerable if Sigma/CWH deal fails appeared first on AJP.

Another year of free flu shots in the West

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 10 May 2024 06:30:18 +0000

Government allocates $8 million for free influenza vaccinations in Western Australia Pharmacists will continue to provide flu vaccines to patients not eligible for the jab under the National Immunisation ...

The post Another year of free flu shots in the West appeared first on AJP.

GSK to bolster Shingrix supply

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 10 May 2024 06:15:33 +0000

TGA grants temporary approval for the use of overseas-sourced Shingrix in Australia GSK is set to supply Shingrix vaccines registered in Hong Kong to the Australian market for patients eligible ...

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‘A very welcome addition.’

Sheshtyn Paola — Fri, 10 May 2024 06:00:25 +0000

PBAC recommends PBS listing of drug to treat endometriosis pain, noting need for new treatments for the condition The PBAC has recommended PBS listing of Ryeqo for treatment of moderate ...

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A new microcredential

Megan Haggan — Fri, 10 May 2024 05:54:28 +0000

New microcredential prepares pharmacists to perform Medication Management Reviews in healthcare settings across Australia From June 2024, registered pharmacists across Australia can access a new microcredential which will train them ...

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SHPA backs ‘much-needed’ vaping legislation

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Fri, 10 May 2024 05:45:57 +0000

Coalition of health organisations including the SHPA, urges senators to support new vape legislation The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) is among a group of advocacy groups calling ...

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Footy team removes cannabis branding

AJP Staff — Fri, 10 May 2024 02:56:17 +0000

The Dolphins National Rugby League club has worked with the TGA, agreeing to remove Alternaleaf branding from its jerseys and on signages displayed at stadiums during its games This followed ...

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The top ten

Chris Brooker — Fri, 10 May 2024 01:12:58 +0000

Perennial pharmacy news maker Chemist Warehouse was on readers minds over the last month, dominating our top ten story list These were the ten most read stories on our website ...

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Govt ‘cheap drugs’ obsession killing industry

Megan Haggan — Thu, 09 May 2024 14:01:28 +0000

Health department bureaucrats are being blamed for the “strangulation” of the pharmaceutical industry, we reported in the Eighties It’s May 1984, and the editor of the AJP is incensed at ...

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Pharmacy stakeholder welcomes pharmacotherapy investment

Megan Haggan — Thu, 09 May 2024 09:00:14 +0000

Guild welcomes the confirmation of funding to the community health sector to improve access to pharmacotherapy services in the 2024/25 Victorian State Budget “For Victorians struggling with chronic addiction, we ...

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‘Hospitals are death chambers,’ posted former GP

Megan Haggan — Thu, 09 May 2024 06:46:25 +0000

Former doctor faces tribunal over “abhorrent” comments about LGBTQIA+, Chinese and Muslim communities, other health practitioners and the former colleagues he called “like Nazis” and an “Orwellian battle axe” The ...

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Will Sigma’s ASX 200 debut change investor outlook?

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 09 May 2024 06:15:28 +0000

Chemist Warehouse merger remains a key issue for investors as Sigma joins ASX 200 Pharmaceutical wholesaler Sigma Healthcare has been catapulted onto the list of the country’s 200 largest public ...

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Abatacept shortage hits earlier than forecast

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 09 May 2024 03:15:12 +0000

Pharmacists urged to advise patients with prescriptions for Orencia (abatacept) to speak to their specialists as shortages hit Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia (BMS) has advised the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) that ...

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EBOS eyes TerryWhite expansion

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Thu, 09 May 2024 00:30:20 +0000

TerryWhite Chemmart franchisor tells investors it is on track to top 600 stores nationwide Pharmacist-delivered services are set to drive further growth for pharmaceutical wholesaler, Symbion, the Macquarie Australia Conference ...

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World News Wrapup: 9 May 2024

Megan Haggan — Wed, 08 May 2024 14:04:32 +0000

Aussie discounter rebrands in New Zealand; Canadians launch anti-aggression campaign; Florida man sues over Adderall “psychosis” New Zealand: All 43 Countdown Pharmacies have been rebranded to Woolworths Pharmacy as of ...

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Pharmacist claimed he had ‘thrown away’ excess S8s

Megan Haggan — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:47:20 +0000

A pharmacy owner’s store was one of the highest Victorian buyers of alprazolam in 2022, according to an investigation which showed he was self-medicating for stress over Covid-19 The pharmacist ...

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Hospitals boosted, but where are the pharmacists?

Megan Haggan — Wed, 08 May 2024 07:06:52 +0000

One state provides a much-needed injection of funds into the hospital sector – but pharmacists are left out in the cold, say stakeholders The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia ...

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Pharmacy students need placement support: Union

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 08 May 2024 06:00:55 +0000

Government urged to show it’s serious about supporting pharmacy by extending Commonwealth Prac Payments to pharmacy students Professional Pharmacists Australia is adding its voice to calls for government support to ...

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Strategic alliance urges MPs to pass vaping reforms

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Wed, 08 May 2024 05:30:11 +0000

Pharmacy and medical organisations are allying with the federal government in war on vaping Health professional bodies are calling on all federal politicians to back legislation banning the sale, supply, ...

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Why it is important to understand where your customer is on their Cough Journey

Guest Author — Wed, 08 May 2024 00:36:10 +0000

Adults suffer an average of 2-5 common colds every year1. When customers are suffering from a cough related to a seasonal cold, they may present to store with the symptoms ...

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SA community pharmacy OCP resupply service

AJP Staff — Tue, 07 May 2024 07:34:18 +0000

From 6 May 2024, pharmacists in South Australia can provide women who meet certain criteria with a resupply of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) without a doctor’s prescription It is ...

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Shortfall in meds knowledge, therapies impacts women

Sheshtyn Paola — Tue, 07 May 2024 07:00:40 +0000

Pharmacist training in women’s health and further PBS coverage for hormone therapies will help women receive better care for menopause, argues SHPA Pharmacists are “ideally placed” in both community and ...

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Sigma to join ASX 200

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 07 May 2024 06:45:50 +0000

Pharmaceutical wholesaler will be listed among Australia’s 200 biggest companies later this week Sigma Healthcare is set to replace construction company, Boral Limited, on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) top ...

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Seven ways to get started in HMRs

Guest Author — Tue, 07 May 2024 06:22:45 +0000

You’re accredited and you’re keen to get started doing medicines reviews, but how do you actually go about it? Brett Currie, Karalyn Huxhagen and Angus Thompson have some pointers One ...

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Begin here: an easy guide to OTC treatment pathways for dry & chesty cough

Jan Decomps — Tue, 07 May 2024 06:00:46 +0000

Pharmacists Carlene Ngoma and Tinu Abraham share an easy-to-use Q&A algorithm to help patients select the right over-the-counter product for short-term cough 29 May 2024 | 7-8.00PM AEST This webinar ...

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Students will leave pharmacy without support: NAPSA

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:45:18 +0000

Pharmacy students “eager to work with the government” to secure placement payments Placement poverty will force some pharmacy students to drop out if the government does not extend the eligibility for ...

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Victorian intern pharmacists to administer vaccines

Megan Haggan — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:42:47 +0000

Monash University pharmacy interns will join the state’s immunisation workforce under a new secretary approval The approval, introduced by the Victorian Department of Health, means graduate pharmacists completing their internship ...

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Veteran consultant to advise over credentialing

Megan Haggan — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:18:31 +0000

As credentialed pharmacy moves forward, the appointment of a well-known advisor creates significant opportunities, one sector leader says Following the Consultant Pharmacists Conference in Cairns, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia ...

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‘We need to be louder. We need to be prouder.’

Megan Haggan — Tue, 07 May 2024 04:44:37 +0000

“Things need to change” says a leading consultant pharmacist – and advocating for the sector is a big part of moving consulting forward In accepting her award as 2024 Consultant ...

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8CPA on track: Guild

Nicholas O’Donoghue — Tue, 07 May 2024 04:15:43 +0000

Guild expects 8CPA to be ready to come into effect from 1 July Pharmacy owners are being advised that negotiations for the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) are continuing as ...

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