The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has today launched its World Pharmacists Day campaign, marking the international date on 25 September at the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) World Congress hosted in Brisbane later this month.
This year's theme Pharmacy Strengthening Health Systems highlights the critical role pharmacists play in supporting medicine safety, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring timely access to care.
PSA National President Dr Fei Sim FPS emphasised the significance of this year's theme.
"Pharmacists are vital to an accessible and sustainable health care system," Dr Sim said.
"Considering the recent health policy changes affecting our profession, more than ever before, policymakers need to acknowledge the critical role that pharmacists play for a stronger health system
"In the lead-up to World Pharmacists Day, we are highlighting the full scope in which pharmacists practise, and the significant role we play as custodians of medicine safety.
"The role of pharmacists has expanded significantly in recent years, from delivering a wider range of vaccines to the extended supply of oral contraceptives and pharmacist-initiated treatment for urinary tract infections. These initiatives are critical to ensure Australians can continue to access timely primary healthcare.
"Pharmacists across specialty areas continue to play a vital role in strengthening health systems, ensuring safe and effective use of medicines, promoting preventative care, and collaborating with the broader healthcare team to support true patient-centred care and patient-directed care.
"This World Pharmacists Day, we are acknowledging the vital role of pharmacists in improving patients' access to care and as the custodians of medicine safety, and the significant impact we have on the broader health system."
As part of the FIP World Congress, PSA will showcase Australian pharmacy, with a focus on pharmacists' role in quality use of medicines including complex medication reviews, the impact of First Nations pharmacists, mental health services, and UTI prescribing trials and initiatives in the host state of Queensland, as well as New South Wales and Western Australia.
Pharmacists around Australia are invited to participate in World Pharmacists Day. A range of resources are available from www.psa.org.au/wpd23
