Secretary of the Department of Health, Glenys Beauchamp will take leave from 24 January, before officially stepping down from her role to retire on 28 February.
Ms Beauchamp was expected to complete negotiations for the 7th Community Pharmacy Agreement, having told delegates at 2019 Pharmacy Connect conference she would secure the agreement by 31 December.
The current Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy has been recommended as the new DoH secretary, and, if confirmed in the position will be required to complete the 7CPA negotiations, in time to replace 6CPA when it ends on 30 June.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has thanked Glenys Beauchamp PSM, for the contribution she has made to health care in Australia during her time as Secretary of the Department of Health.
Describing her “distinguished career”, PSA National President, Associate Professor Chris Freeman said: “Ms Beauchamp has been an advocate for the community and in her role leading the Department of Health has been dedicated to improving health care and outcomes.”
Ms Beauchamp was instrumental as Secretary and Board Member of the Australian Digital Health Agency in the national expansion of My Health Record, which has seen community pharmacy as national leaders in digital adoption to improve patient care and safety.
“We have been honoured to work with Glenys during her tenure and wish her all the best for the future.”
PSA has welcomed the recommended appointment of current Chief Medical Officer, Professor Brendan Murphy.
“We have enjoyed a close working relationship with Professor Murphy and welcome the opportunity to work with him in his new role,” Professor Freeman said.
“Professor Murphy has an exemplary understanding of the health system, including the roles of pharmacists. We look forward to working with him and the Minister for Health to finalise the 7th Community Pharmacy Agreement, including embedding the 10th National Health Priority Area of safe and quality use of medicines within the agreement.
“He comes into the role at a pivotal time, with Australia’s Long-Term National Health Plan, the 10-year Primary Health Care Plan and Preventive Health Strategy, and the National Medicines Policy review all helping shape the healthcare system over the coming years.
“Professor Murphy has shown strong resolve to collaborate across the health system with all health care providers, most notably through his role with the MBS review. The PSA looks forward to continuing this collaborative approach to improving health care for Australians,” said Professor Freeman.
