The Pharmacy Guild of Australia acknowledges with sadness the news of the passing of the Hon Michael Beahan AM, former President of the Senate.
The National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Professor Trent Twomey, says that as a politician Mr Beahan reflected society’s values and aspirations.
“He fought hard but fairly for his constituents and was unique in his ability to understand the mood of communities across Australia,” says Professor Twomey.
Professor Twomey says when Mr Beahan resigned from politics, he became an integral part of the Pharmacy’s Guild’s team.
“Michael worked for the Guild and was instrumental in helping to arrive at successful Community Pharmacy Agreements,” says Professor Twomey.
“He brought his political skills as well as his negotiating expertise to the table to help improve outcomes for community pharmacists and their patients.
“He saw that providing more services through pharmacies was a win-win situation and he advocated strongly for these services to be included in Community Pharmacy Agreements.
“And while his advocacy was strong, those who negotiated with him remember a person who was always respectful no matter how robust the negotiations became.”
Professor Twomey says anyone who goes into a community pharmacy nowadays benefits from Mr Beahan’s work.
“Many of the services and structures found in community pharmacies today are direct results of Michael’s input and negotiating skills,” says Professor Twomey.
“On behalf of all Guild members, I extend my condolences to Michael’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
