Pharmacy Daily | NSW’s $1m mental health pledge

PHARMACISTS in regional NSW will be able to access mental health training to support patients living in drought affected communities, through a $1 million program.

The funding, announced by NSW Nationals MP, Leslie Williams, at last Thu's Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW Branch Parliamentary Dinner in Sydney, aims to take advantage of pharmacists' strong relationships with their communities.

Speaking on behalf of Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, Williams said that having been the Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health, she understood "the valuable role community pharmacies play in our health system".

"Pharmacists are uniquely placed to be able to develop strong, lasting relationships with their customers," she said.

"With this additional training, they will be able to provide much needed mental health support to their communities, providing genuine support for people who need it, easing the burden on frontline services.

"During this unprecedented drought, mental health issues are more prevalent than ever in regional communities.

"We know that it is tough out there, which is why we are working hand in hand with mental health services to make sure people receive the help they need."

Williams noted the State Government was also aware of the challenges facing rural pharmacy owners, in terms of rent security and the costs of ensuring their premises are fit for purpose.

She told the attendees at the dinner that the Committee on Investment, Industry and Regional Development had pledged to investigate the rental risks regional pharmacies face.

"Given the important role pharmacies play in our communities, we know we cannot afford to lose them," she said.

Guild NSW Branch President, David Heffernan, welcomed the Government's support for the community pharmacy sector.

"Mental health training of this type will be a valuable and beneficial asset for pharmacists and their patients across the State," he said.

"It is great to have this kind of support for the role that pharmacists play in their communities, particularly in rural and regional areas where access to other health care professionals may not be available.

"Community pharmacists are Australia's most accessible health care professionals, and through that regular contact they develop ties with and knowledge of their patients."

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) NSW Branch President, Peter Carroll, also backed the State Government's investment.

"The PSA fully supports the announcement by the NSW Government and looks forward to working with them to equip pharmacists in further supporting these communities," he said.