The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is pleased to announce that Dr Kristen Riddle, pharmacist and National President of the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) in the US will be a keynote speaker at this year's Pharmacy Connect.
Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, said that Dr Riddle will provide delegates with first‑hand insights and highlight the key learnings Australia can take to protect and strengthen our sector.
"The US is at the centre of world-wide pharmaceutical policy - developments there have direct implications for Australia," Mr Sclavos said.
"Securing Dr Riddle, who is a passionate speaker and a great leader of the pharmacy profession, is particularly valuable given the US market's influence across global pharmacy policy."
"The rapid expansion of direct to consumer models is placing enormous pressure on the US pharmacy sector, with 2025 seeing the closure of hundreds of pharmacies across all formats. These major policy shifts and emerging commercial models - including proposed 'Most Favoured Nation' pricing requirements and platforms such as TrumpRx - offer important lessons for the future of Australian pharmacy."
A second‑generation independent pharmacist and co‑owner of American Home Pharmacy in Clinton, Arkansas, Dr Riddle delivers innovative patient‑centred care, including wellness testing, vaccinations and medication management services.
Her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing community pharmacy through patient‑focused programs in wellness screening, women's health and personalised compounding.
Through her leadership at state and national levels, Dr Riddle champions independent pharmacy and advances the profession's role in improving patient health and strengthening communities.
Dr Riddle is the first keynote speaker confirmed for Pharmacy Connect 2026. Stay tuned for more keynote speaker announcements in the weeks to come.
Pharmacy Connect is taking place 9 September – 11 September at Hyatt Regency Sydney. Eary bird registration, which can save attendees up to $100, is now open.
Mr Sclavos encourages pharmacy owners, pharmacists, executives, interns, students and industry partners to take advantage of Early Bird pricing and secure their place early.
"Pharmacy Connect delivers practical, relevant education and meaningful networking in a focused and highly engaged environment. And booking early means you get all the value at the best price."
