Two Queensland pharmacists have launched an evidence-based women’s health education platform — Pretty Proven — aimed at countering the spread of health misinformation on social media.
Miranda Chan and Courtney Oar (pictured), who between them have more than 15 years’ experience across pharmacy, education and healthcare, say the platform was prompted by a growing number of patients turning to TikTok and social media influencers for medical advice, often ahead of qualified health professionals.
The pair cite data showing more than 80% of young people now use social media for health information, raising concerns about content prioritising engagement over clinical accuracy.
“As pharmacists, we were personally being faced with misleading health information via our social media accounts. It’s unsurprising that women are left feeling confused, overwhelmed and unsure what to believe after consuming conflicting information online,” they say.
“There’s an enormous amount of health content being consumed every day, but not all of it is credible, evidence-based or clinically safe.”
Ms Chan and Ms Oar say the rise of “TikTok healthcare” is changing the way patients interact with healthcare professionals and creating new pressure points for pharmacists and doctors navigating misinformation in real time.
“We’re now seeing pharmacists and doctors spend more time than ever unpacking misinformation, correcting wellness myths and helping patients critically evaluate what they’re consuming online,” says Ms Oar.
The pair believe the pharmacy profession is uniquely positioned to become a stronger force in preventative health education, digital healthcare communication and patient advocacy.
Their new platform was designed to bridge the growing gap between evidence-based healthcare and the way modern consumers seek information today — particularly women navigating increasingly complex health conversations online.
Importantly, the founders stress that the platform is designed to complement healthcare professionals and support evidence-based conversations between patients and their healthcare teams.
“We’re not trying to replace other healthcare professionals,” says Ms Chan.
“We’re passionate about supporting our fellow pharmacists, doctors and allied health professionals by creating accessible, evidence-based education women can trust.”
The pair also hope the platform helps highlight the evolving scope of pharmacy careers and inspires future pharmacists to think beyond traditional pathways.
“The role of pharmacists is evolving rapidly,” says Ms Oar.
“We’re seeing pharmacists become educators, communicators, advocates, digital creators and expanded scope healthcare professionals. It’s an incredibly exciting time for the profession.”
Ms Chan and Ms Oar say they would also love to see greater collaboration between pharmacy schools, universities, professional organisations and healthcare leaders to encourage innovation and modern healthcare communication within the profession.
“We believe pharmacists have one of the most valuable and underutilised skillsets in healthcare when it comes to communication and patient education,” says Ms Chan.
“There’s enormous opportunity for the profession moving forward.”
The platform is live on the founders’ website and social media channels, with plans for further educational resources, podcasts and pharmacist-led public health initiatives.
To learn more, visit: Pretty Proven.
