The Guild’s ACT Branch hosted its 10th annual International Women’s Day Dinner bringing together pharmacists, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of women in pharmacy and discuss progress in women’s healthcare access. ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith and 2024 Canberra Citizen of the Year, Hannah Andrevski, were keynote speakers for the evening.
Minister Stephen-Smith took the opportunity to announce a major milestone for women’s health in the ACT, with the expansion of pharmacist-led treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and oral contraceptive pill resupply.
(L-R) ACT Chief Pharmacist Amanda Galbraith, ACT Guild Branch President Simon Blacker, Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, and founder and CEO of Roundabout Canberra Hannah Andrevski, Owner of Capital Chemist Wanniassa Elise Apolloni.
Following a successful trial, all eligible ACT community pharmacies will now be able to offer these services, making it easier for women to access timely treatment while easing pressure on GPs and emergency departments.
“The roll-out of these treatments to more community pharmacies will make it easier for people to access the health services they need and reduce pressure on primary health care providers and emergency departments,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
With more than 780 consultations for UTIs and 176 for contraceptive resupply recorded during the trial, the expansion ensures more women will have access to these essential services when and where they need them.
Guest speaker Hannah Andrevski shares Roundabout Canberra’s story.
ACT Branch President Simon Blacker welcomed the announcement, stating that empowering pharmacists to provide these services enhances patient access and supports a more sustainable healthcare system.
“The expansion of uncomplicated UTI treatment and resupply of the oral contraceptive pill to eligible patients by all participating Canberra pharmacies is great news for patients,” Mr Blacker said.
Guest speaker Hannah Andrevski, founder and CEO of Roundabout Canberra, shared her inspiring journey of supporting vulnerable families. Her charity has already assisted 744 children this year with essential baby and children’s items.
The evening concluded with a donation to Roundabout Canberra on behalf of the community pharmacy sector.
