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Contents President’s Report National Pharmacy Student Survey Rural Pharmacy Scholarship Scheme Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islander Scholarship Scheme National Rural Health Conference Scholarship The Pharmacy Guild of Australia LocumCo LocumCo X NAPSA Scholarship Advanced Pharmacy NAPSA Research Poster Competition Pharmaceutical Defence Limited Australian Medicines Handbook PSA Upcoming Events

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President’s Report Dear NAPSA members,

It’s been a busy two months since I wrote my last President’s report - the Board, Chairs and newly elected Committees have been hard at work delivering for our members.

PRESIDENT

Sebastian Harper

NAPSA has continued to spearhead the campaign to get pharmacy and allied health students included in the Commonwealth Prac Payment. While undertaking a placement in remote North West Queensland, I provided evidence at a Senate hearing into the legislation that will soon establish the Commonwealth Prac Payment program.

Senators were sympathetic to our cause, and I was proud to sit on a panel alongside other student organisations advocating for the government to do more in tackling placement poverty. Later this month I will be in Canberra for the last two parliamentary sitting weeks of the year, standing up for the thousands of health students across Australia who have been excluded from this important program.

Our 2024 charitable works have concluded, with the results now in! NAPSA raised $21,265.98 for QENDO during Charity Cup, and saved hundreds of lives in the annual Vampire Cup. The efforts of every single NAPSA branch in helping deliver these worthy initiatives never goes unnoticed at a national level.

Not long ago, NAPSA Team Members were elected for the second year of the Committee program, with a record number of applicants. Alongside the election of all Team Members, I am especially proud to have seen an inaugural identifying Indigenous Committee elected, which has already started some fantastic work.

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We launched a new partnership with Blue Light Card, Australia’s leading discount service for frontline workers and first responders, thanks to our supporters at The Pharmacy Guild of Australia. During this cost-of-living crisis, the Board is proud to have secured more benefits for our members.

For the first time, NAPSA and LocumCo gave a lucky student the opportunity to attend the National Rural Health Conference on a joint scholarship. Timothy Yeo from the University of Sydney was the inaugural scholarship recipient, attending the conference in Perth that ignited a passion to contribute to rural Australian healthcare.

With so much happening in the NAPSA space I still can’t finish this report without reminding all pharmacy students, whether they are a NAPSA member or not, that the National Pharmacy Students’ Survey closes on the 30th of November. The NPSS is highly regarded not just by our organisation, but by stakeholders across the pharmacy industry. Decisions made about your future are made with the results of this survey in mind, so don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the future of pharmacy!

To everyone entering exam season, best of luck - and a massive congratulations to all of our graduating students!

Yours faithfully,

Sebastian Harper National President 2024/2025 president@napsa.org.au

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Make Your Voice Heard in the National Pharmacy Students' Survey 2024!

The NPSS has been open for a month now, and responses are coming in strong! I am so grateful to anybody who has already completed the survey and the universities that have spread the word. The survey is still open for a few more weeks, closing at the end of November.

The NPSS is a vital tool that gives each of us a chance to make our voices heard on issues that impact our future. Your feedback guides the work of NAPSA as we advocate for you, serving the needs, ambitions, and concerns of pharmacy students across the country.

Why Take the Survey?

The pharmacy industry is constantly evolving, and as both current students and future pharmacists, your opinions play a critical role in shaping our advocacy efforts. By participating in the survey, you can: Influence Policy – Your input helps us identify key issues and priorities that we’ll focus on in the coming year, ensuring that we’re advocating for changes that matter most to you.

Enhance Education – Share your insights on how we can advocate to improve pharmacy education, including placements, learning resources, and support services.

Shape the Future of the Profession – Your insights help us advocate with educational institutions and stakeholders, strengthening the pharmacy profession for current and future students.

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Prizes!

We value your time, so we’re offering a range of exciting prizes to survey participants! Completing the NPSS not only supports the profession but also puts you in the running for these fantastic prizes! Every entry has the chance to win: Apple AirPods Max (valued at $900) Frank Green gift set (valued at $100) 5 x $50 Visa gift card 3 x AMH25 textbook 10 x $20 Officeworks voucher How to Participate Check your email for the survey link, or click here. The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and closes on November 30th 2024.

Fill out the survey, encourage your classmates, and help NAPSA shape a brighter future for pharmacy students!

Kindly, Mia Avram Director of Policy & Advocacy

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National Rural Health Conference Scholarship

Timothy Yeo Participating in the 17th National Rural Health Conference (NRHC) 2024 was an incredible experience that broadened my understanding of healthcare beyond metropolitan settings. The conference provided a unique networking opportunity, allowing me to connect with healthcare leaders from regional and rural Australia, including academics, professionals, and industry leaders. Their insights deepened my appreciation for the unique challenges faced by rural health systems.

One of the highlights was listening to world leaders in rural healthcare, such as representatives from the Alaskan Nuka health system, who shared inspiring approaches to improving healthcare outcomes for indigenous populations. It was eye-opening to learn how their innovative system achieved results above the national average in the U.S. The NAPSA x LocumCo scholarship also gave me the chance to explore Perth —on the opposite side of the continent from Sydney—which added a sense of adventure to the experience.

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The variety of workshops and presentations showcased the latest innovations and solutions being implemented in rural healthcare. These sessions helped me appreciate the difficulties faced by regional practitioners and the creative ways they address resource limitations.

The conference ignited a passion within me to contribute to rural Australian healthcare, where I believe there is immense potential to make a meaningful difference. It was a motivating experience that reaffirmed my desire to support the improvement of health outcomes in under-resourced communities.

Timothy Yeo

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Unlock Your Potential: The Benefits of Working as a Locum Dispensary Technician During Semester Breaks As a student navigating the demanding world of academics, finding opportunities that both bolster your resume and provide financial support can be a game-changer. One such opportunity lies in working as a locum dispensary technician during your semester breaks or days off. Here's why stepping into this role can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make during your academic journey.

1. Real-World Experience Classroom learning provides the theoretical foundation, but nothing compares to hands-on experience. Working in a dispensary immerses you in the daily operations of pharmacy care. You'll become familiar with medication dispensing processes, pharmacy management systems, and patient interactions—experience that is invaluable and sets you apart in future job applications.

2. Financial Benefits Let's face it—student life isn't cheap. Textbooks, tuition, and living expenses add up quickly. As a locum dispensary technician, you can earn a competitive wage that helps ease financial stress. Plus, with locum positions often paying higher rates due to their temporary nature, you might find yourself earning more than in typical part-time roles.

3. Flexible Scheduling Balancing work and study is crucial. Locum positions offer the flexibility to choose shifts that fit around your academic commitments. Whether you have a free weekend or an entire semester break, you can work as much or as little as your schedule allows.

4. Networking Opportunities Working in different pharmacies exposes you to a network of professionals in the healthcare industry.

Building relationships with pharmacists, technicians, and other healthcare staff can open doors to future employment opportunities and provide mentorship from experienced practitioners.

5. Skill Development Beyond pharmacy knowledge, you'll develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Dealing with real patients and collaborating with healthcare professionals enhances your interpersonal abilities, which are highly sought after in any career 6. Resume Enhancement Employers look for candidates who have gone the extra mile to gain experience. Listing locum dispensary work on your resume demonstrates initiative, dedication, and a proactive approach to your career. It showcases your ability to apply academic knowledge in practical settings.

7. Exposure to Diverse Environments As a locum technician, you might work in community pharmacies, hospitals, or specialised clinics. This diversity allows you to explore different facets of the pharmacy industry, helping you identify areas you're passionate about for future specialisation.

8. Immediate Impact In this role, you're not just observing—you’re making a tangible difference in people's lives. From advising patients on medication usage to ensuring prescriptions are accurately filled, your contributions have a direct impact on patient health and wellbeing.

9. Stay Ahead Academically Engaging with medications and treatments in a practical context reinforces your academic learning.

You'll return to your studies with a deeper understanding of course material, often finding that concepts click more readily after seeing them applied in real life.

10. Personal Growth Stepping into the professional world builds confidence and independence. You'll learn to handle responsibilities, make informed decisions, and manage your time effectively—all skills that benefit you academically and personally.

Getting Started Interested in taking the leap? Here's how to begin: Check Requirements: Ensure you meet any necessary experience required to work as a locum dispensary technician.

Update Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework and any previous experience that showcases your suitability for the role.

Reach Out to LocumCo: T: 1800 357 001 or E: jobs@locumco.com.au and complete this form: https://locumco.com.au/register/job-seekers/ Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your academic background, interest in pharmacy, and how you can contribute.

Final Thoughts Working as a locum dispensary technician offers a unique blend of benefits that align perfectly with the needs and aspirations of students in the pharmacy field. It's more than just a job—it's a stepping stone toward a fulfilling career.

So, as you plan your next semester break or look for productive ways to spend your days off, consider this opportunity to grow professionally and personally. Embrace the chance to make a difference, earn income, and set yourself up for future success.

Empower your education with experience—start your journey as a locum dispensary technician today!

Written by Sue Muller

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LocumCo x NAPSA Scholarship The scholarship provided by LocumCo and NAPSA has been a crucial factor in enabling me to complete a highly valuable placement in Moruya. This experience has played an instrumental role in my professional development, allowing me to immerse myself in a rural pharmacy setting that offered unique learning opportunities I would not have experienced elsewhere. Working in this environment has greatly enhanced my understanding of pharmacy practice in a rural context, where healthcare access is often limited, and pharmacists play an essential role in maintaining community health.

During my placement, I had the opportunity to work closely with experienced pharmacists who have dedicated themselves to serving their local community.

These professionals demonstrated a profound commitment to patient care, often going above and beyond to meet the needs of their patients. Through this experience, I developed critical skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication. I also learned how to be flexible and responsive to the needs of patients, particularly in situations where resources are limited or when emergencies arise. These experiences have significantly enhanced my ability to manage patient care effectively and prepared me for the diverse challenges that I may encounter throughout my career.

The scholarship has also provided me with a deeper understanding of the role pharmacists play beyond their traditional responsibilities. I witnessed firsthand how pharmacists act as trusted healthcare advisors and contribute to improving patient outcomes through education, medication management, and active community engagement. This experience has reinforced my commitment to a community-centered approach to healthcare and highlighted the profound impact that pharmacists can have on the health and well-being of individuals and families.

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Moreover, this placement has allowed me to expand my professional network by connecting with healthcare professionals who are passionate about rural and community healthcare. These connections have provided valuable mentorship and guidance, which will be instrumental as I continue to develop my career in pharmacy. I have also become more motivated to explore further opportunities in rural and underserved areas, understanding the difference that dedicated healthcare professionals can make in these settings.

Additionally, the scholarship has enabled me to experience the beauty and diversity of the South Coast of NSW, providing a broader perspective on both life and work. This experience has encouraged me to consider the broader implications of my career choices, particularly the importance of working in areas where there is a genuine need for healthcare services. The chance to live and work in a rural area has deepened my appreciation for the challenges and rewards of serving such communities.

Overall, this scholarship has been an invaluable asset in shaping my professional journey. It has helped me build confidence, gain essential skills, and foster a deeper understanding of the role of pharmacists in rural communities. I am sincerely grateful to LocumCo and NAPSA for their support in making this experience possible. Their investment in my education and professional growth has inspired me to continue striving for excellence in my future endeavors as a pharmacist.

Mushtaha Ahmed Connecting tomorrow's pharmacists www.napsa.org.au

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STUDENT MEMBERSHIP IS FREE! JOIN ADPHA TODAY

Thaddeus Chai Empowering the future of healthcare through lifelong learning Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) warmly congratulates Thaddeus Chai – a driven and passionate 4th-year pharmacy student at Monash University in Victoria - as the inaugural winner of the ANZCAP Pharmacy Student of the Year award.

This prestigious recognition celebrates students who demonstrate self-development and commitment to life-long learning through ANZCAP’s innovative portfoliobuilding platform while also honouring academic excellence and dedication to delivering patient-centred care.

Thaddeus’ portfolio stood out for its depth of reflection while emphasising the value of continuous learning and mentorship, drawing inspiration from renowned surgeon Atul Gawande’s idea that growth requires constant feedback and self-improvement.

Thaddeus has actively sought out leadership roles, including serving as the Victorian Pharmacy Students’ Association President and contributing to AdPha summer research placements. His commitment to rural health, leadership in mentoring programs and innovative commitment to research are already making a significant impact on the profession.

Congratulations again to Thaddeus for highlighting the value of curiosity and leadership and we look forward to celebrating with him at Medicines Management 2024 in mid-November.

‘It’s not how good you are now; it’s how good you’re going to be that really matters’ – Atul Gawande

The Australian and New Zealand College of Advanced Pharmacy

Why ANZCAP? ANZCAP is Australasia’s first and only pharmacy recognition platform that can track, manage and plan your career from student, intern, to pharmacist.

As a student, ANZCAP will help you to: • map your future by completing learning experiences • showcase your self-development by building a custom portfolio of achievements • be motivated to find new direction at points of standstill And the best part - ANZCAP is FREE for all students via their FREE AdPha membership!

Find out more about ANZCAP for Students: adpha.au/ANZCAP/ANZCAP-students

The NAPSA Research Poster Competition: Showcasing the Future of Pharmacy in Australia The NAPSA research poster competition is an annual event that celebrates the research efforts of pharmacy students across Australia. Designed to encourage innovation and scientific inquiry, this competition offers students a unique platform to present their findings, demonstrate analytical skills, and receive valuable feedback from experts within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Held as part of the NAPSA Annual Congress, the competition is a key feature of the event, underscoring the importance of research in advancing pharmacy practice and education in Australia.

The NAPSA research poster competition is open to all pharmacy students who are members of NAPSA, with research entries spanning various categories such as clinical pharmacy, pharmacology, public health, pharmacy practice, and the pharmaceutical sciences. Students can submit original research projects, evidence-based literature reviews, or innovative studies addressing relevant issues in pharmacy and healthcare.

The competition is inclusive of both individual and team projects, encouraging collaboration among students and guidance from academic mentors.

Each student submits a poster summarising their project, which goes through a preliminary review before being accepted into the live poster presentation round at the NAPSA Congress, which will be held in Brisbane in 2025. This stage allows participants to share their work with peers, academics, and industry professionals, all of whom play a role in fostering a positive environment for the growth of research in our sector.

Judges for the competition are typically representatives from the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association (APSA) and other experienced professionals from academia, clinical practice, and the broader pharmaceutical industry. Posters are evaluated based on several key criteria: 1. Relevance and Innovation: Does the research address a current issue in pharmacy or healthcare? Does it offer fresh insights or propose a new approach?

2. Methodology: Are the research methods appropriate and clearly articulated?

3. Presentation and Clarity: Is the poster visually effective? Are the research goals, methods, findings, and conclusions clearly communicated?

4. Impact and Practicality: Can the findings be applied in real-world settings? What potential impact could the research have on patient care, pharmacy practice, or healthcare policy?

5. Originality: Does the research bring forward unique perspectives or findings that could advance the field?

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Participation in the competition offers numerous advantages for students, from strengthening their academic profiles to building confidence in scientific communication. Students gain invaluable experience summarising and presenting their research, as well as engaging in thoughtful discussions with peers and industry experts.

This level of exposure is preparing them for professional presentations and in continuing to encourage and grow a deep appreciation for evidence-based practice in pharmacy.

Beyond the personal development opportunities, the competition is also an excellent networking platform. Through their interactions with professionals, students often uncover collaboration opportunities, internships, and even job prospects. Winners of the competition are rewarded with opportunities to present their findings at Congress and be awarded incredibly generous prizes.

The NAPSA research poster competition has seen numerous pioneering projects that reflect the diverse interests and aspirations of Australia’s pharmacy students. From addressing emerging health challenges and exploring pharmacogenomics to advancing health equity and drug safety, the competition illustrates the significant role that research plays in contemporary pharmacy practice. By promoting interdisciplinary studies that connect pharmacy with public health, and policy, NAPSA aims to foster how pharmacy students can play an integral role in developing future comprehensive healthcare solutions.

The NAPSA research poster competition is more than an academic event; it is a celebration of pharmacy students and the pharmacy sector’s future in Australia. By offering students a platform to showcase their research, NAPSA aims to not only advance the skills and knowledge of young pharmacy professionals but also fuel a passion for innovation that will shape the healthcare landscape for years to come.

Should you wish to submit your research poster or discuss more about how you can collaborate with NAPSA and our research efforts, please email research.chair@napsa.org.au We look forward to updating you in 2025!

Kind regards, Taylor Dudley Research Chair

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KEEP YOUR FREE STUDENT MEMBERSHIP ACTIVE!

JOIN ADPHA TODAY!

Is your membership up to date?

Enjoy free access to tailored symposia and publishing opportunities, and prepare for early experience in the hospital environment to give you an edge as you plan your path in pharmacy.

Unlock more benefits than ever with free AdPha Student Membership:

FREE AND DISCOUNTED ACCESS TO CPD

RESOURCES + PUBLICATIONS

` Up to $500 off registration to Medicines Management, AdPha’s annual conference

` Free access to thousands of full-text journal articles via EBSCOhost

` 20% saving on all national seminars

` Free access to high quality, evidence-based information via DynaMed

` Free registration for Branch webinars ` Discounted registration for Branch symposia ` Free access to self-paced education via Online CPD ` Contribute to local learning and networking through AdPha Branch committees

SPECIALTY PRACTICE ` Self-enrol in Interest Groups ` Contribute to clinical education across 30+ specialty areas ` Build networks of peers via online communities

` Free access to the Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research (JPPR) and GRIT

LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION

` $35 off the Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook ` $50 off Don’t Rush to Crush

`

` Free access to AdPha Standards of Practice through JPPR

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` Free registration to annual AdPha-NAPSA Student Symposium

POLICY + ADVOCACY ` Effect local-level change through AdPha Branch committees ` Centralised access to policy and medicines submissions ` Centralised access to position statements, practice updates and fact sheets ` Weekly notification of medicines shor tages

Invitation to the annual launch of Pharmacy Forecast Australia Nominate for Branch Committee positions

RECOGNITION AND REWARD ` AdPhaM postnominal

PSA Upcoming Events For more information on any of the PSA’s Upcoming Events, check out their website - https://www.psa.org.au/networking-events/all-events/ November 2024 Tuesday 12th November 2024 - Beyond Compliance - Live Webinar Wednesday 13th November 2024 - Wakeup call: sleeping pills, but what else? - Live Webinar Tuesday 19th November 2024 - Immunisation Practical Workshop - North Sydney Tuesday 26th November 2024 - Managing CVD and CKD risk in type 2 diabetes - Live Webinar December 2024 Wednesday 11th December 2024 - Immunisation Practical Workshop Hobart

Edited by Felicity Radcliff NAPSA Publications Chair 2024/2025 Email: publications@napsa.org.au

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