The Pharmacy Guild of Australia today welcomed the Australian College of Nursing’s (ACN) call for changes to the model of Australian healthcare to meet future challenges.
The Guild was responding to the ACN’s submission to the Cormack Review, otherwise known as ‘Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce Review’.
Like pharmacists, nurses are highlighting their profession working to its full scope of practice as a way of meeting the growing health needs of patients and the demands of an ageing population.
Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey says nurses have a greater role to play in servicing the community and patients.
“Unfortunately, there is enough illness in Australia to keep all health professionals busy, but we need to work smarter not just harder to meet the needs of our patients.”
“The ACN submission points out benefits to patients, consumers, the health workforce and taxpayers of nurses working to their full scope of practice,” Professor Twomey said.
“The Guild agrees with Australia’s nurses. Like pharmacists, nurses and other allied health professionals have the skills, knowledge and training to treat and diagnose more everyday health conditions.
“The Cormack Review is a rare opportunity to redesign the healthcare system so that all health professionals are working together in the interests of patients and the community.
“Pharmacists and nurses working to our full scope and expertise as part of the healthcare team will improve patient access and relieve pressure on our overstretched health system, especially emergency departments and general practice.” Professor Twomey said.
