Guild plots pharmacy future

THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia is set to release a new “Framework for Change” in the coming weeks, based on the findings of its landmark Community Pharmacy 2025 (CP2025) strategic planning project.

An update from Guild executive director David Quilty yesterday said the document would provide the community pharmacy sector with “practical actions it can take to secure its future,” with content featuring the personal experiences of several pharmacy owners already on the transformation path who have agreed to be highlighted as “CP2025 Champions”.

Framework for Change will outline nine possible pathways for pharmacies to assist in planning for a viable future, Quilty said.

“Each pathway for growth requires an engaged and trained workforce which recognises that pharmacy and pharmacists are experts in medication advice, management and safety,” he said.

The Guild has also released new CP2025 market research, which indicated patients want pharmacyled services delivered in-home, as well as having more health services available in pharmacies.

Most patients supported an expansion of medication management services, with some particularly keen to see pharmacists able to dispense medication in an emergency and renew prescriptions for stable conditions.

At least half of those surveyed were keen for their local pharmacy to offer in-house facilities for allied health professionals.

The latest CP2025 updates, including the ORIMA market research and strategic issues summary, are online at guild.org.au.