SEVERAL pharmacy professionals have been recognised with awards on Australia Day.
NSW pharmacist Anna Barwick, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the pharmacy profession.
A resident of Walcha for more than a decade, Barwick has also worked as a pharmacist at Tamworth and Armidale hospitals and as an academic at the University of New England.
Barwick founded PharmOnline, an advisory service that aims to provide Australians, particularly those unable to access their local community pharmacy due to geographic or other isolation, with 24/7 remote access to registered, experienced pharmacists.
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim acknowledged Barwick's enormous contribution to pharmacy profession.
"A pioneer of innovation, Anna has consistently transformed access to care in her community and beyond," A/Prof Sim said.
"I have been privileged to see first-hand Anna's work, and hope that others are as inspired and energised as I am by her contribution to the community and the next generation of pharmacists."
Meanwhile, pharmacists Sobia and Irfan Hashmi of South Australia are recipients of the South Australia Local Hero award.
See our exclusive interview with Anna Barwick on page 2. Over 20 years, the Hashmis have transformed healthcare in remote and rural communities in South Australia, establishing six pharmacies in areas where there were previously none.
The Hashmis are committed to serving their diverse communities, employing staff who collectively speak 21 languages, allowing them to reach vulnerable groups and provide culturally sensitive care.
In addition, they have mentored intern pharmacists from overseas, coordinating multilingual education and outreach initiatives to help them enter the much-needed workforce in regional Australia.
Also recognised was Dr Craig Rayner, who has been appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia in recognition of his significant service to pharmacology across a range of roles and organisations.
Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey congratulated this year's finalists, award recipients and honours all community pharmacists this Australia Day.
"This year's award winners demonstrate a wide-ranging commitment not only to our profession but most importantly, to their patients and community," Professor Twomey said. KB
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