Opposition Leader Peter Dutton says there are big opportunities for pharmacies going into the future.
In an exclusive interview with Australasian Pharmacy, Mr Dutton says more can be done with the existing number of community pharmacies.
“The fact is we’ve got 5,900 locations across the country and I think it is an underutilised but essential element of our primary care model and I think there [are] big opportunities. Professional development continues as...demand increases from patients as well,” he told Australasian Pharmacy Presenter Miranda Deakin.
He also congratulated the Pharmacy Guild for achieving a Heads of Agreement on the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA).
“I think it’s a credit to the sector, community pharmacy stood together and ultimately the agreement’s been delivered and well done.
“I’ve found the Pharmacy Guild one of the most effective bodies to engage with.
“They have the support of their membership; they’re willing to put their money where their mouth is in campaigns.
“And I think they’re a credible negotiator as a result of that and they get outcomes for their pharmacists that otherwise wouldn’t be the case,” he said.
He also heaped praise on his own community pharmacist Karen Brown who used to own a pharmacy in the Brisbane suburb of Samford. He since followed her to her new pharmacy at nearby Arana Hills.
“She’s fantastic and I go and get my flu jab there and she’s got a great team as well.
“Karen was pharmacist of the year only a couple of years ago, so she’s a really integral part of our local community.”
Australasian Pharmacy Presenter Miranda Deakin with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton
