Lucy Walker Chemmart Goondiwindi, Queensland named overall winner.
Health minister Greg Hunt has just spoken at the Australian Pharmacy Professional conference on the Gold Coast, pledging his support for the community pharmacy sector in Australia.
While not announcing any specific initiatives, Hunt confirmed he was in advanced discussions with Guild leadership about location rules and the ongoing risk share arrangements. He assured APP delegates that he has an “engaged and sympathetic ear…things are travelling very well and very positively”.
With regard to location rules Hunt said he was confident of “finding a resolution that will leave you particularly happy,” and he recognised the “exceptionally challenging” nature of the risk share matter which has seen lower payments under the Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement due to reduced prescription volumes.
“I am working on an approach which I am hopeful will win the support of my colleagues…my judgement is we will find an outcome on location and risk share which will materially and significantly improve the circumstances of Guild members,” Hunt said.
Prior to his presentation Hunt announced the winners of the Pharmacy of the Year awards. Capital Chemist Wanniassa, ACT took out the award for Professional Innovation; Capital Chemist Southlands ACT won the Business Management category; while Lucy Walker Chemmart from Goondiwindi in Queensland (pictured below) won the Community Engagement Category and was also named the overall winner of the Pharmacy of the Year Award for 2017.
Lots more from APP in tomorrow’s issue of Pharmacy Daily.