Advancing Practice credentials confirmed

PHARMACISTS in the first round of the Advancing Practice initiative have been notified of their credentials, with the move marking a “new milestone” for the pharmacy leadership program.

A total of 34 applicants from across the country and a variety of practice settings were credentialed as either Stage I Advancing Practice, Stage II Advancing Practice or as an Advanced Practice Pharmacist, conferring the respective postnominals AdvPP(I), AdvPP(II) and Adv. Prac. Pharm.

Pharmacy Development Australia Chair Deirdre Criddle said the detailed portfolio reports provided by applicants provided robust feedback through which pharmacists could build on their practice influence and impact, with international implications because the Advancing Practice Program aligns with FIP goals.

Advisory Board Chair Ian Coombes said the strong response to the program showed Australian pharmacists were enthusiastic about engaging in a formal process of independent evaluation of their portfolio, receiving feedback and recognition for their expertise.

He said Advancing Practice provided an objective mechanism through which a pharmacist could determine their impact on patient care and medicines management.

“Ultimately the process assures Australians and fellow healthcare professionals that improving outcomes for patients is front and centre to all pharmacists’ practice.”