In an unprecedented move aimed at recognising the expertise of pharmacists and enhancing specialty pharmacy practices, the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) has launched its ambitious Transformation 2024 agenda. This transformational initiative comes with a significant investment in digital infrastructure, practitioner recognition, and educational enhancements, with the ultimate goal of expanding the positive impact of pharmacy expertise across various care settings.
President Tom Simpson's Vision
SHPA President Tom Simpson unveiled the Transformation 2024 agenda through a dedicated microsite. He emphasised that this agenda marks a new era for the organization, showcasing a range of initiatives designed to reshape the pharmacy landscape in Australia.
New Practice Recognition Pathways
A central focus of Transformation 2024 is the introduction of new practice recognition pathways. These pathways are intended to assist pharmacists of all levels in navigating the evolving professional landscape. As the boundaries between different care settings continue to blur, the importance of national recognition becomes paramount. This recognition program will ensure that the achievements of Australian pharmacists are clearly understood by employers, peers, healthcare colleagues, and most importantly, the patients under their care.
Recognition for Pharmacy Technicians
Transformation 2024 also recognises the increasing autonomy and impact of pharmacy technicians. It includes pathways for pharmacy technicians, acknowledging their vital roles in the healthcare system. Additionally, the agenda features fast-track pharmacist pathways that align with evidence-based Residency frameworks.
Vice President Dr. Kate O'Hara's Perspective
Vice President Dr. Kate O’Hara noted that SHPA's identity is evolving to meet the changing healthcare landscape. She emphasised the need for strong champions and flexible, career-long support for specialty practitioners who work in collaborative care settings.
Investment in Digital Infrastructure
As part of Transformation 2024, SHPA is committing to significant investment in digital infrastructure and capabilities. This investment aims to foster better connectivity and support for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians through intuitive technology solutions.
Promoting Deprescribing
SHPA has been at the forefront of conversations around polypharmacy in residential aged care. Transformation 2024 will further promote deprescribing as a core element of medication safety.
Practice Development Pathways for All Settings
One of the strengths of Transformation 2024 is its focus on practice development pathways applicable to various healthcare settings, including community and residential care, primary care, transitions of care, and hospital care. These pathways will benefit both pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, ensuring that the entire sector's needs are met and all communities are served.
Preparing for the Future
Mr. Simpson acknowledged that pharmacy in Australia has always adapted to advances in medicine and healthcare innovation. However, the pace of change is accelerating, and it's crucial to prepare the future workforce for complex, interconnected care.
Embracing Multidisciplinary Collaboration
SHPA embraces the entire pharmacy profession across its membership. It serves as a representative peak body for pharmacy practice in Australia, fostering a native habitat of multidisciplinary, collaborative care.
Looking Ahead
Transformation 2024 is set to reshape the landscape of pharmacy practice in Australia, ensuring that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving healthcare environment. Further details about SHPA's new practice recognition program will be announced at the 81st FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Brisbane in September.
For more information, please contact: Nick Sharp-Paul, Chief Operating Officer Email: nsharp-paul@shpa.org.au Phone: 0411 098 838
About SHPA:
The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) is the national, professional organization for over 6,100 Hospital Pharmacists, Hospital Pharmacist Interns, and Hospital Pharmacy Technicians across Australia's healthcare system. SHPA advocates for their pivotal role in improving the safety and quality of medicines use. With a commitment to evidence-based practice and a passion for patient care, SHPA members are progressive advocates for clinical excellence.
For more information, visit shpa.org.au.
Please note that this blog post is based on the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia's media release 'Unprecedented' focus on recognition and specialty practice as SHPA releases Transformation 2024.
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