The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) are set to negotiate the first dedicated agreement on pharmacy programs with the Australian Government. PSA will be signatory to this agreement.
The agreement will cover a range of pharmacy programs that no longer sit within the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement, including but not limited to medication management programs (including Home Medicines Reviews and Residential Medication Management Reviews), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific programs, and rural support programs that encompass pharmacists in a range of practice areas.
The new agreement will see PSA and the Commonwealth work together, alongside other pharmacy stakeholders, to strengthen programs that pharmacists deliver across the health system.
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS said the agreement was an opportunity to reform programs to ensure they are fit-for-purpose, now and into the future.
“PSA is the recognised peak body for all pharmacists, in all areas of practice across our health system. This agreement is an opportunity to reform program rules and funding arrangements to maximise the impact of pharmacists across the health sector,” Associate Professor Sim said.
“In negotiating a standalone agreement with the Australian Government, we are advocating for the changes we have long known need to happen, allowing pharmacists to best serve our communities.
“Members will be aware that following PSA’s advocacy, the government confirmed in late 2024 that these programs would have ongoing funding beyond the current financial year. Now that there is security of funding for these programs, our focus turns to removing the barriers that have prevented pharmacists from playing a greater role in patient care.”
As signatory to the new agreement, PSA will be seeking feedback from pharmacists and stakeholders on program arrangements and barriers.
“I encourage every pharmacist involved in these programs to have their say so that we can provide a full picture of the barriers, challenges and opportunities for pharmacists to provide better care for patients.
“PSA looks forward to continuing our work with the federal government to secure a stronger pharmacy profession now and into the future,” Associate Professor Sim concluded.
PSA consultant pharmacist adviser Debbie Rigby FPS also welcomed the announcement.
“As the home for credentialed pharmacists, it’s important that PSA is the organisation leading these discussions,” Ms Rigby said.
“I’m excited to be part of PSA’s team, advocating for improvements to these programs. As someone with a deep understanding of the current programs, I am committed to raising awareness of the benefits of these programs and further enhancing outcomes for patients.”
