New title welcomed as complementary to interdisciplinary lifelong learning recognised through ANZCAP Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) today welcomed confirmation that the title of Doctor of Pharmacy will be granted through the undertaking of Masters Degree (Extended) programs, while reiterating the importance of postgraduate on-the-job training and interdisciplinary collaboration to gain recognised specialty skills.
AdPha President Tom Simpson FANZCAP (Lead&Mgmt) says the new graduate pathway, announced last night by The Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care, provides new opportunity for emerging pharmacy practitioners who may enter advanced pharmacy pathways.
‘Advanced Pharmacy Australia welcomes any initiative that extends opportunities for pharmacists.
‘As we continue to expand scope of practice through specialty practice, elevation of technicians and partnered prescribing, the Doctor of Pharmacy title provides a strong gateway to the interdisciplinary environments of advanced pharmacy in which skills and expertise can flourish.’
Mr Simpson says AdPha’s recently released Clinical Pharmacy Standards and the Australian and New Zealand College of Advanced Pharmacy (ANZCAP) are examples of benchmark standards and lifelong learning that support expanded scope of pharmacist practice.
‘AdPha’s Clinical Pharmacy Standards provide a blueprint for patient-centred care that upholds equitable healthcare access for all Australians.
‘By blending individual patient care activities with interprofessional practice, we ensure
multidisciplinary input into evidence-informed decisions, the catalyst for career-long growth in pharmacy practice and positive impact on patients.
‘In turn, ANZCAP recognises this growth, and we look forward to more details on the new Doctor of Pharmacy such that they provide complementary supports for pharmacist upon graduation through to their mid and later careers.’
Dr Jacinta Johnson FANZCAP (Edu., Research), Chair of the AdPha Training Program Advisory Committee, says the ongoing investment in the next generation of pharmacists is encouraging.
‘This announcement is another signal to students they are valued for their skills when entering the workforce.
‘We know Australian pharmacy students want dynamic and fulfilling careers in the profession. This begins with diverse learning options, and is reinforced by the ability to grow and specialise in different disciplines.’
