Profession’s leading lights recognised at PSA Excellence Awards
Some of pharmacy’s highest achievers have been honoured in the PSA Excellence Awards, announced at PSA17.
Sydney pharmacist Irvine Newton is the 2017 Pharmacist of the Year, in recognition of his long service to the profession, especially his work with methadone patients.
Mr Newton told conference delegates how he was initially very concerned about getting involved In working with these patients but rapidly realised the importance, value and satisfaction of the work.
He advised younger pharmacist to remain passionate and commuted to their career path and said they should remember to “treat every patient as you would rest a loved one.”
Canberra pharmacist and owner Elise Apolloni is the Young Pharmacist of the Year, another honour for one of the standout younger pharmacists.
She particular highlighted her Wanniassa pharmacy’s mental health program as a focus and highlight if her career to date.
Former NSW PSA president John Bell was given the PSA Lifetime Achievement Award for his more than 50 years service to the profession.
Mr Bell, a pharmacist who became a face for the profession with a range of regular media gigs, also had a long stint as president of the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association.
He paid tribute to the support of his family and of his pharmacy colleagues and mentors.
PSA National President Dr Shane Jackson said it was a pleasure to announce the winners of the 2017 Excellence Awards, which recognised pharmacists who have maintained the highest standards of commitment and professionalism in pharmacy.
“The Awards applaud individuals at the apex of our profession’s achievements, focusing on pharmacists involved in innovative practice, raising practice standards, and providing a model of practice for others to emulate,” Mr Jackson said.
The Pharmacist of the Year, Early Career Pharmacist of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award winners each receive a Symbion Education Grant valued at $9,000.
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