The Pharmacy Guild has welcomed the establishment of a new Masters of Pharmacy (Extended) qualification to better prepare graduates for the pharmacy of the future.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler announced the change to the Australian Qualification Framework, at the Guild’s Annual Parliamentary Dinner at Parliament House in Canberra last night.
The change means graduates of a new Level 9 Extended Masters of Pharmacy degree will earn the title of Doctor of Pharmacy. It elevates the profession in line with the recognition bestowed on other health professionals such as physiotherapists, podiatrists, optometrists and dentists. Study for the Extended Masters will include the intern year and graduates will be able to participate in the full scope of practice upon their registration.
“This recognition significantly enhances the professional credibility of pharmacists and reinforces their critical role in community health within Australia and globally,” Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey said.
“It’s an important step forward for future community pharmacists who will soon be able to start their careers with the highest possible qualification.
“It provides recognition for the extended scope of clinical practice being undertaken by pharmacists and will be better for pharmacists, patients and primary healthcare.
“Importantly, the Extended Masters program brings Australia’s registerable pharmacy degree in line with that delivered in comparative countries, making pharmacy a more attractive study and career option for Australian students.”
Speaking at the Pharmacy Guild’s Parliamentary Dinner Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said:
“The Albanese government is delivering on a commitment to pharmacists who can now join other health professionals recognised with the title Doctor when they finish an Extended Masters.
“Opportunities to extend the education and scope of a pharmacists work will help attract and retain pharmacists in our workforce which means more pharmacists, happier pharmacists. Working in more places, providing more services and cheaper medicines to more Australians. This can only be a good thing.”
