Connecting through research as NAPSA embraces AdPha

The sixth edition of the world’s first peer-reviewed pharmacy student journal covers ‘Connecting Students to the Profession’ as student body supports new era for SHPA
Original research on student readiness, a personal reflection on student placements and an award-winning piece on the impact of new technologies on patient care are among the many highlights in the latest issue of the Australian Pharmacy Students’ Journal (APSJ).
An initiative of the National Australia Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA) supported by Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) – formerly known as SHPA – APSJ provides students with the opportunities to publish research under the guiding arm of the editorial team now led by Co-Editor-in-Chief Megan Potter.
The issue is the first since the new trading name went live last week, and NAPSA President Sebastian Harper this week congratulated Advanced Pharmacy Australia on the change.
‘Pharmacy is rapidly changing, and pharmacy students, interns and registered pharmacists are all well-placed to explore what “advanced pharmacy” means to them.
‘SHPA has been a valued partner of NAPSA for many years, and we look forward to continuing the great work that we do and expanding the relationship between NAPSA and AdPha.
‘It’s certainly an exciting period for pharmacy and one that as students, aspiring to be better practitioners, we wholly embrace.’
Drawing on the theme of ‘connection’, this sixth issue presents 13 pieces, including one original piece of research, highlighting the breadth of talent and commitment to pharmacy advancement emerging from the student profession.
AdPha President Tom Simpson says the theme of connection closely aligns with the ethos of Advanced Pharmacy Australia, which builds on 80 years of hospital pharmacy innovation.
‘This idea about being part of “a community driven by shared goals and aspirations” is beautifully reflected by outgoing APSJ Editors Annabelle and Brielle in their welcome, and it’s something that reflects the role AdPha has played for over 80 years, connecting like-minded members from across the country.
‘AdPha is proud of our long-standing connection to the student community. And as NAPSA’s research partner, we will continue to support our next generation of talented and passionate pharmacy professionals to realise their aspirations and enrich patient care, regardless of career stage or career path.’
Feature pieces in the sixth edition of APSJ include:
• ‘Do Androids Dream of Electric MRPS’ – a winning piece authored by Jack Cullen highlighting the adaption of new technologies and its impact on how pharmacists treat and deliver care for patients.
• ‘Preparedness of Pharmacy Students and Preceptors for Work Integrated Learning in an Undergraduate Pharmacy Program’ – original research highlighting the factors both students and preceptors identified regarding the attendance and supervision of pharmacy placements co-authored by Thien An Quach, A/Professor Christine Staatz, Dr Jane Lee, Dr Jasmina Fejzic and Caitlin Hardman
• ‘Victorian Student Summer Placements: a Gateway to Hospital Pharmacy’ – a letter authored by Rameen Khan reflecting on her personal experiences undertaking three AdPha (then SHPA) student placements.