LEADERSHIP, innovation and an "outstanding commitment to improving community health" have landed Dubbo pharmacist Lisa Gibson the title of Pharmacist of the Year at the 2025 Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA) annual Pharmacy Excellence Awards (PD 21 Oct).
Gibson, who is pharmacist in charge and partner of Orana Mall Pharmacy (OMP), said: "It was nice to be recognised for over 20 years of service to the Dubbo community."
"Pharmacies in regional Australia are regularly the first port of call for assistance - we often play a role beyond healthcare in our communities.
"Not only are the IPA awards recognition of individuals and their achievements, but the wider team who support our pharmacists in their vital work."
Through Gibson's leadership, OMP has expanded its scope to deliver essential services such as vaccinations and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, directly reducing pressure on overstretched local GPs.
Gisbon was involved in the IPA point-of-care testing pilot (PD 15 Apr), and told Pharmacy Daily that of all the people tested for blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood glucose, there were very few who did not require referral to a GP.
"We didn't target a certain population - it was just a random assortment of patients - and it was quite interesting for our team to learn there were so many people out there without the knowledge that they needed to take action on their health," Gibson said.
"We had a number of people who we referred to a GP who then returned to us and started on medication - there were a lot of grateful patients."
The pharmacy has continued to offer the point-of-care testing - like most rural and regional centres, getting a GP appointment can be difficult in Dubbo, so the screening tests can provide a quick indication as to whether an appointment may be necessary.
Gibson is also an accredited diabetes educator, enabling her to provide tailored support for patients in Dubbo and surrounding rural areas, and has established an in-store sleep apnoea clinic.
She is currently undertaking full scope training, cementing her focus on professional services.
"I'm incredibly proud," she said of the award.
"It was a great night to celebrate with pharmacists from all over the country and take time to recognise leaders within our industry." KB
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