Principal Sponsors
President’s Report
DearNAPSAmembers,
It’sbeenabusytwomonthssinceIwrotemy lastPresident’sreport-theBoard,Chairsand newlyelectedCommitteeshavebeenhardat workdeliveringforourmembers.
Sebastian Harper PRESIDENT
NAPSAhascontinuedtospearheadthe campaigntogetpharmacyandallied healthstudentsincludedinthe CommonwealthPracPayment.While undertakingaplacementinremoteNorth WestQueensland,Iprovidedevidenceat aSenatehearingintothelegislationthatwill soonestablishtheCommonwealthPracPaymentprogram Senatorsweresympathetictoourcause,andIwasproudtositonapanel alongsideotherstudentorganisationsadvocatingforthegovernmenttodo moreintacklingplacementpoverty LaterthismonthIwillbeinCanberraforthe lasttwoparliamentarysittingweeksoftheyear,standingupforthethousandsof healthstudentsacrossAustraliawhohavebeenexcludedfromthisimportant program.
Our2024charitableworkshaveconcluded,withtheresultsnowin!NAPSAraised $21,265.98forQENDOduringCharityCup,andsavedhundredsoflivesinthe annualVampireCup TheeffortsofeverysingleNAPSAbranchinhelpingdeliver theseworthyinitiativesnevergoesunnoticedatanationallevel
Notlongago,NAPSATeamMemberswereelectedforthesecondyearofthe Committeeprogram,witharecordnumberofapplicants.Alongsidetheelection ofallTeamMembers,Iamespeciallyproudtohaveseenaninauguralidentifying IndigenousCommitteeelected,whichhasalreadystartedsomefantasticwork
WelaunchedanewpartnershipwithBlueLightCard,Australia’sleadingdiscount serviceforfrontlineworkersandfirstresponders,thankstooursupportersatThe PharmacyGuildofAustralia Duringthiscost-of-livingcrisis,theBoardisproudto havesecuredmorebenefitsforourmembers.
Forthefirsttime,NAPSAandLocumCogavealuckystudenttheopportunityto attendtheNationalRuralHealthConferenceonajointscholarship.TimothyYeo fromtheUniversityofSydneywastheinauguralscholarshiprecipient,attending theconferenceinPerththatignitedapassiontocontributetoruralAustralian healthcare.
WithsomuchhappeningintheNAPSAspaceIstillcan’tfinishthisreportwithout remindingallpharmacystudents,whethertheyareaNAPSAmemberornot,that theNationalPharmacyStudents’Surveyclosesonthe30thofNovember The NPSSishighlyregardednotjustbyourorganisation,butbystakeholdersacross thepharmacyindustry Decisionsmadeaboutyourfuturearemadewiththe resultsofthissurveyinmind,sodon’tmissthisopportunitytocontributetothe futureofpharmacy!
Toeveryoneenteringexamseason,bestofluck-andamassivecongratulations toallofourgraduatingstudents!
Yoursfaithfully,
SebastianHarper NationalPresident2024/2025 president@napsa.org.au
Make Your Voice Heard in the National Pharmacy Students' Survey 2024!
TheNPSShasbeenopenforamonthnow,andresponsesarecomingin strong!Iamsogratefultoanybodywhohasalreadycompletedthesurvey andtheuniversitiesthathavespreadtheword.Thesurveyisstillopenfora fewmoreweeks,closingattheendofNovember
TheNPSSisavitaltoolthatgiveseachofusachancetomakeourvoices heardonissuesthatimpactourfuture.Yourfeedbackguidestheworkof NAPSAasweadvocateforyou,servingtheneeds,ambitions,andconcerns ofpharmacystudentsacrossthecountry.
WhyTaketheSurvey?
Thepharmacyindustryisconstantlyevolving,andasbothcurrentstudents andfuturepharmacists,youropinionsplayacriticalroleinshapingour advocacyefforts.Byparticipatinginthesurvey,youcan:
InfluencePolicy–Yourinputhelpsusidentifykeyissuesandpriorities thatwe’llfocusoninthecomingyear,ensuringthatwe’readvocatingfor changesthatmattermosttoyou
EnhanceEducation–Shareyourinsightsonhowwecanadvocateto improvepharmacyeducation,includingplacements,learningresources, andsupportservices.
ShapetheFutureoftheProfession–Yourinsightshelpusadvocatewith educationalinstitutionsandstakeholders,strengtheningthepharmacy professionforcurrentandfuturestudents
Prizes!
Wevalueyourtime,sowe’reofferingarangeofexcitingprizestosurvey participants!CompletingtheNPSSnotonlysupportstheprofessionbutalso putsyouintherunningforthesefantasticprizes!Everyentryhasthe chancetowin:
AppleAirPodsMax(valuedat$900)
FrankGreengiftset(valuedat$100)
5x$50Visagiftcard
3xAMH25textbook
10x$20Officeworksvoucher
HowtoParticipate
Checkyouremailforthesurveylink,orclickhere.Thesurveytakesabout15 minutestocompleteandclosesonNovember30th2024
Filloutthesurvey,encourageyourclassmates,andhelpNAPSAshapea brighterfutureforpharmacystudents!
Kindly, MiaAvram DirectorofPolicy&Advocacy
National Rural Health Conference Scholarship
Timothy Yeo
Participating in the 17th National Rural Health Conference (NRHC) 2024 was an incredible experience that broadened my understanding of healthcare beyond metropolitan settings The conference provided a unique networking opportunity, allowing me to connect with healthcare leaders from regional and rural Australia, including academics, professionals, and industry leaders. Their insights deepened my appreciationfortheuniquechallengesfacedbyruralhealthsystems.
One of the highlights was listening to world leaders in rural healthcare, such as representatives from the Alaskan Nuka health system, who shared inspiring approaches to improving healthcare outcomes for indigenouspopulations.Itwaseye-openingtolearnhowtheirinnovative system achieved results above the national average in the U.S. The NAPSAxLocumCoscholarshipalsogavemethechancetoexplorePerth —on the opposite side of the continent from Sydney—which added a senseofadventuretotheexperience
The variety of workshops and presentations showcased the latest innovationsandsolutionsbeingimplementedinruralhealthcare These sessions helped me appreciate the difficulties faced by regional practitioners and the creative ways they address resource limitations. The conference ignited a passion within me to contribute to rural Australian healthcare, where I believe there is immense potential to make a meaningful difference It was a motivating experience that reaffirmed my desire to support the improvement of health outcomes inunder-resourcedcommunities
TimothyYeo
Unlock Your Potential: The Benefits of Working as a Locum Dispensary Technician During Semester Breaks
As a student navigating the demanding world of academics, finding opportunities that both bolster your resume and provide financial support can be a game-changer One such opportunity lies in working as a locum dispensary technician during your semester breaks or days off Here's why stepping into this role can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make during your academic journey
1. Real-World Experience
Classroom learning provides the theoretical foundation, but nothing compares to hands-on experience. Working in a dispensary immerses you in the daily operations of pharmacy care. You'll become familiar with medication dispensing processes, pharmacy management systems, and patient interactions experience that is invaluable and sets you apart in future job applications.
2. Financial Benefits
Let's face it student life isn't cheap. Textbooks, tuition, and living expenses add up quickly. As a locum dispensary technician, you can earn a competitive wage that helps ease financial stress. Plus, with locum positions often paying higher rates due to their temporary nature, you might find yourself earning more than in typical part-time roles
3. Flexible Scheduling
Balancing work and study is crucial Locum positions offer the flexibility to choose shifts that fit around your academic commitments Whether you have a free weekend or an entire semester break, you can work as much or as little as your schedule allows
4. Networking Opportunities
Working in different pharmacies exposes you to a network of professionals in the healthcare industry Building relationships with pharmacists, technicians, and other healthcare staff can open doors to future employment opportunities and provide mentorship from experienced practitioners
5. Skill Development
Beyond pharmacy knowledge, you'll develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving Dealing with real patients and collaborating with healthcare professionals enhances your interpersonal abilities, which are highly sought after in any career
6. Resume Enhancement
Employers look for candidates who have gone the extra mile to gain experience Listing locum dispensary work on your resume demonstrates initiative, dedication, and a proactive approach to your career It showcases your ability to apply academic knowledge in practical settings
7. Exposure to Diverse Environments
As a locum technician, you might work in community pharmacies, hospitals, or specialised clinics. This diversity allows you to explore different facets of the pharmacy industry, helping you identify areas you're passionate about for future specialisation.
8. Immediate Impact
In this role, you're not just observing you’re making a tangible difference in people's lives. From advising patients on medication usage to ensuring prescriptions are accurately filled, your contributions have a direct impact on patient health and wellbeing.
9. Stay Ahead Academically
Engaging with medications and treatments in a practical context reinforces your academic learning You'll return to your studies with a deeper understanding of course material, often finding that concepts click more readily after seeing them applied in real life
10. Personal Growth
Stepping into the professional world builds confidence and independence You'll learn to handle responsibilities, make informed decisions, and manage your time effectively all skills that benefit you academically and personally
Getting Started
Interested in taking the leap? Here's how to begin:
Check Requirements: Ensure you meet any necessary experience required to work as a locum dispensary technician
Update Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework and any previous experience that showcases your suitability for the role
Reach Out to LocumCo: T: 1800 357 001 or E: jobs@locumcocomau and complete this form: https://locumcocomau/register/job-seekers/
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your academic background, interest in pharmacy, and how you can contribute
Final Thoughts
Working as a locum dispensary technician offers a unique blend of benefits that align perfectly with the needs and aspirations of students in the pharmacy field It's more than just a job it's a stepping stone toward a fulfilling career.
So, as you plan your next semester break or look for productive ways to spend your days off, consider this opportunity to grow professionally and personally. Embrace the chance to make a difference, earn income, and set yourself up for future success.
Empower your education with experience start your journey as a locum dispensary technician today!
Written by Sue Muller
LocumCo x NAPSA Scholarship
The scholarship provided by LocumCo and NAPSA has been a crucial factor in enablingmetocompleteahighlyvaluableplacementinMoruya Thisexperience has played an instrumental role in my professional development, allowing me to immerse myself in a rural pharmacy setting that offered unique learning opportunities I would not have experienced elsewhere. Working in this environment has greatly enhanced my understanding of pharmacy practice in a rural context, where healthcare access is often limited, and pharmacists play an essentialroleinmaintainingcommunityhealth.
During my placement, I had the opportunity to work closely with experienced pharmacists who have dedicated themselves to serving their local community. Theseprofessionalsdemonstratedaprofoundcommitmenttopatientcare,often going above and beyond to meet the needs of their patients. Through this experience, I developed critical skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication I also learned how to be flexible and responsive to the needs of patients, particularly in situations where resources are limited or when emergencies arise. These experiences have significantly enhanced my ability to managepatientcareeffectivelyandpreparedmeforthediversechallengesthat Imayencounterthroughoutmycareer.
The scholarship has also provided me with a deeper understanding of the role pharmacists play beyond their traditional responsibilities. I witnessed firsthand howpharmacistsactastrustedhealthcareadvisorsandcontributetoimproving patient outcomes through education, medication management, and active community engagement. This experience has reinforced my commitment to a community-centered approach to healthcare and highlighted the profound impact that pharmacists can have on the health and well-being of individuals andfamilies
Moreover, this placement has allowed me to expand my professional network by connecting with healthcare professionals who are passionate about rural and community healthcare These connections have provided valuable mentorship and guidance, which will be instrumental as I continue to develop my career in pharmacy Ihavealsobecomemoremotivatedtoexplorefurtheropportunitiesin rural and underserved areas, understanding the difference that dedicated healthcareprofessionalscanmakeinthesesettings.
Additionally, the scholarship has enabled me to experience the beauty and diversity of the South Coast of NSW, providing a broader perspective on both life and work This experience has encouraged me to consider the broader implicationsofmycareerchoices,particularlytheimportanceofworkinginareas where there is a genuine need for healthcare services The chance to live and work in a rural area has deepened my appreciation for the challenges and rewardsofservingsuchcommunities.
Overall,thisscholarshiphasbeenaninvaluableassetinshapingmyprofessional journey. It has helped me build confidence, gain essential skills, and foster a deeper understanding of the role of pharmacists in rural communities I am sincerely grateful to LocumCo and NAPSA for their support in making this experience possible. Their investment in my education and professional growth has inspired me to continue striving for excellence in my future endeavors as a pharmacist.
STUDENT MEMBERSHIP IS FREE! JOIN ADPHA TODAY
Thaddeus Chai
Empowering the future of healthcare through lifelong learning
Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) warmly congratulates Thaddeus Chai – a driven and passionate 4th-year pharmacy student at Monash University in Victoria - as the inaugural winner of the ANZCAP Pharmacy Student of the Year award
This prestigious recognition celebrates students who demonstrate self-development and commitment to life-long learning through ANZCAP’s innovative portfoliobuilding platform while also honouring academic excellence and dedication to delivering patient-centred care.
Thaddeus’ portfolio stood out for its depth of reflection while emphasising the value of continuous learning and mentorship, drawing inspiration from renowned surgeon Atul Gawande’s idea that growth requires constant feedback and self-improvement
Thaddeus has actively sought out leadership roles, including serving as the Victorian Pharmacy Students’ Association President and contributing to AdPha summer research placements His commitment to rural health, leadership in mentoring programs and innovative commitment to research are already making a significant impact on the profession
Congratulations again to Thaddeus for highlighting the value of curiosity and leadership and we look forward to celebrating with him at Medicines Management 2024 in mid-November.
‘It’s not how good you are now; it’s how good you’re going to be that really matters’ – Atul Gawande
The Australian and New Zealand College of Advanced Pharmacy
Why ANZCAP?
ANZCAP is Australasia’s first and only pharmacy recognition platform that can track, manage and plan your career from student, intern, to pharmacist.
As a student, ANZCAP will help you to:
• map your future by completing learning experiences
• showcase your self-development by building a custom portfolio of achievements
• be motivated to find new direction at points of standstill
And the best part - ANZCAP is FREE for all students via their FREE AdPha membership!
Find out more about ANZCAP for Students: adpha.au/ANZCAP/ANZCAP-students
The NAPSA Research Poster Competition: Showcasing the Future of Pharmacy in Australia
TheNAPSAresearchpostercompetitionisanannualeventthatcelebratestheresearch effortsofpharmacystudentsacrossAustralia.Designedtoencourageinnovationand scientificinquiry,thiscompetitionoffersstudentsauniqueplatformtopresenttheir findings,demonstrateanalyticalskills,andreceivevaluablefeedbackfromexperts withinthepharmaceuticalandhealthcaresectors.HeldaspartoftheNAPSAAnnual Congress,thecompetitionisakeyfeatureoftheevent,underscoringtheimportanceof researchinadvancingpharmacypracticeandeducationinAustralia.
TheNAPSAresearchpostercompetitionisopentoallpharmacystudentswhoare membersofNAPSA,withresearchentriesspanningvariouscategoriessuchasclinical pharmacy,pharmacology,publichealth,pharmacypractice,andthepharmaceutical sciences.Studentscansubmitoriginalresearchprojects,evidence-basedliterature reviews,orinnovativestudiesaddressingrelevantissuesinpharmacyandhealthcare Thecompetitionisinclusiveofbothindividualandteamprojects,encouraging collaborationamongstudentsandguidancefromacademicmentors
Eachstudentsubmitsapostersummarisingtheirproject,whichgoesthrougha preliminaryreviewbeforebeingacceptedintotheliveposterpresentationroundatthe NAPSACongress,whichwillbeheldinBrisbanein2025.Thisstageallowsparticipantsto sharetheirworkwithpeers,academics,andindustryprofessionals,allofwhomplaya roleinfosteringapositiveenvironmentforthegrowthofresearchinoursector
JudgesforthecompetitionaretypicallyrepresentativesfromtheAustralasian PharmaceuticalScienceAssociation(APSA)andotherexperiencedprofessionalsfrom academia,clinicalpractice,andthebroaderpharmaceuticalindustry Postersare evaluatedbasedonseveralkeycriteria:
1.RelevanceandInnovation:Doestheresearchaddressacurrentissueinpharmacyor healthcare?Doesitofferfreshinsightsorproposeanewapproach?
2 Methodology:Aretheresearchmethodsappropriateandclearlyarticulated?
3.PresentationandClarity:Isthepostervisuallyeffective?Aretheresearchgoals, methods,findings,andconclusionsclearlycommunicated?
4.ImpactandPracticality:Canthefindingsbeappliedinreal-worldsettings?What potentialimpactcouldtheresearchhaveonpatientcare,pharmacypractice,or healthcarepolicy?
5.Originality:Doestheresearchbringforwarduniqueperspectivesorfindingsthat couldadvancethefield?
Participationinthecompetitionoffersnumerousadvantagesforstudents,from strengtheningtheiracademicprofilestobuildingconfidenceinscientific communication.Studentsgaininvaluableexperiencesummarisingandpresentingtheir research,aswellasengaginginthoughtfuldiscussionswithpeersandindustryexperts Thislevelofexposureispreparingthemforprofessionalpresentationsandincontinuing toencourageandgrowadeepappreciationforevidence-basedpracticeinpharmacy
Beyondthepersonaldevelopmentopportunities,thecompetitionisalsoanexcellent networkingplatform Throughtheirinteractionswithprofessionals,studentsoften uncovercollaborationopportunities,internships,andevenjobprospects.Winnersofthe competitionarerewardedwithopportunitiestopresenttheirfindingsatCongressand beawardedincrediblygenerousprizes.
TheNAPSAresearchpostercompetitionhasseennumerouspioneeringprojectsthat reflectthediverseinterestsandaspirationsofAustralia’spharmacystudents.From addressingemerginghealthchallengesandexploringpharmacogenomicsto advancinghealthequityanddrugsafety,thecompetitionillustratesthesignificantrole thatresearchplaysincontemporarypharmacypractice Bypromotinginterdisciplinary studiesthatconnectpharmacywithpublichealth,andpolicy,NAPSAaimstofosterhow pharmacystudentscanplayanintegralroleindevelopingfuturecomprehensive healthcaresolutions
TheNAPSAresearchpostercompetitionismorethananacademicevent;itisa celebrationofpharmacystudentsandthepharmacysector’sfutureinAustralia By offeringstudentsaplatformtoshowcasetheirresearch,NAPSAaimstonotonly advancetheskillsandknowledgeofyoungpharmacyprofessionalsbutalsofuela passionforinnovationthatwillshapethehealthcarelandscapeforyearstocome.
Shouldyouwishtosubmityourresearchposterordiscussmoreabouthowyoucan collaboratewithNAPSAandourresearchefforts,pleaseemail researchchair@napsaorgau
Welookforwardtoupdatingyouin2025!
Kindregards,
TaylorDudley ResearchChair
KEEP YOUR FREE STUDENT MEMBERSHIP ACTIVE!
JOIN ADPHA TODAY!
Is your membership up to date?
Enjoy free access to tailored symposia and publishing opportunities, and prepare for early experience in the hospital environment to give you an edge as you plan your path in pharmacy.
Unlock more benefits than ever with free AdPha Student Membership:
FREE AND DISCOUNTED ACCESS TO CPD
Up to $500 off registration to Medicines Management, AdPha’s annual conference
20% saving on all national seminars
Free registration for Branch webinars
Discounted registration for Branch symposia
Free access to self-paced education via Online CPD
Contribute to local learning and networking through AdPha Branch committees
Free registration to annual AdPha-NAPSA Student Symposium
RESOURCES + PUBLICATIONS
Free access to thousands of full-text journal articles via EBSCOhost
Free access to high quality, evidence-based information via DynaMed
Free access to the Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research (JPPR) and GRIT
$35 off the Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook
$50 off Don’t Rush to Crush
Free access to AdPha Standards of Practice through JPPR
POLICY + ADVOCACY
Effect local-level change through AdPha Branch committees
Centralised access to policy and medicines submissions
Centralised access to position statements, practice updates and fact sheets
Weekly notification of medicines shor tages
SPECIALTY PRACTICE
Self-enrol in Interest Groups
Contribute to clinical education across 30+ specialty areas
Build networks of peers via online communities positions
LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION
Invitation to the annual launch of Pharmacy Forecast Australia
Nominate for Branch Committee
RECOGNITION AND REWARD
AdPhaM postnominal
PSA Upcoming Events
FormoreinformationonanyofthePSA’sUpcomingEvents,checkout theirwebsite-https://wwwpsaorgau/networking-events/all-events/
November2024
Tuesday12thNovember2024-BeyondCompliance-LiveWebinar
Wednesday13thNovember2024-Wakeupcall:sleepingpills,butwhat else?-LiveWebinar
Tuesday19thNovember2024-ImmunisationPracticalWorkshop-North Sydney
Tuesday26thNovember2024-ManagingCVDandCKDriskintype2 diabetes-LiveWebinar
December2024
Wednesday11thDecember2024-ImmunisationPracticalWorkshopHobart
EditedbyFelicityRadcliff NAPSAPublicationsChair2024/2025
Email:publications@napsaorgau