Anna Theophilos MPS (pictured), a Melbourne-based community pharmacist, has been named the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA) inaugural Vaccination Ambassador, recognising her leadership and innovation in improving immunisation access in priority communities.
As part of her role as Vaccination Ambassador, Ms Theophilos will work with PSA to promote pharmacist immunisers across the country.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be serving as the inaugural PSA National Vaccination Ambassador, a role that reflects my deep commitment to improving access to healthcare through immunisation delivery,” says Ms Theophilos.
Stepping into her role, Ms Theophilos is set to host the dedicated vaccination stream on day two of PSA25.
“I’m excited to work with PSA to champion our profession and help ensure every Australian has the opportunity to stay protected,” she says.
Making immunisation easier and more accessible
Selected from a nationwide pool of applicants, Ms Theophilos stood out for her passion, dedication and advocacy in the vaccination space.
In aged care, Ms Theophilos has pioneered digital systems that ensure residents receive timely access to all NIP and private vaccines.
These streamlined digital tools allow aged care facilities to immediately identify vaccination gaps and support governing bodies with live immunisation data.
Ms Theophilos’ initiatives extend beyond aged care. She has also led innovative outreach services, including immunisation clinics for children with sensory needs.
“My focus has always been on making immunisation easier and more accessible, particularly for those who might otherwise miss out,” says Ms Theophilos.
“Whether it’s residents in aged care, children with sensory needs, or homebound individuals, we need systems that meet people where they are – not the other way around.”
PSA Vaccination Ambassador initiative
The PSA Vaccination Ambassador program is supported by leading vaccine manufacturers, including GSK, Pfizer, CSL Seqirus, and Sanofi.
“GSK is proud to support the inaugural PSA Vaccine Ambassador Awards, recognising the exceptional contributions of pharmacy professionals who champion vaccination care in communities across Australia,” says GSK Pharmacy Clinical Services Lead, Maggie Chow.
Congratulating Ms Theophilos on the ambassadorship, Pfizer Australia & New Zealand Managing Director, Anne Harris underscores the vital role that pharmacists play in their communities.
“This initiative will assist in improving vaccination access for all Australians,” she says.
“Pfizer Australia is proud to support PSA’s inaugural Vaccination Ambassador Program, and we congratulate Anna Theophilos for her commitment to enhancing preventative health and keeping Australians healthy.”
Dr Jules Bayliss, CSL Seqirus Medical Director, Vaccines & Biosecurity, highlights the importance of vaccinations as public health interventions, noting the essential role of pharmacists in “enabling vaccine access, improving uptake and preventing disease”.
“As an Australian company, CSL is proud to be supporting the PSA Vaccination Ambassador Program,” says Dr Bayliss.
Sanofi General Manager Vaccines, Australia, New Zealand & South Korea, Mike Zhang adds: “As a long-standing partner in Australia’s healthcare ecosystem, Sanofi proudly supports the PSA’s inaugural Vaccination Ambassador program.
“This initiative recognises pharmacists’ vital role in protecting community health and improving vaccination access.
“We congratulate Anna Theophilos on her outstanding contribution to public health through pharmacy practice.”
