In this episode of Pharmacy View Podcast’s Pharmacy Career, Resource & Training stream, host Kavita Nadan, Pharmacist and Founder at Locumate is joined by Ghassoub El Assaad, a Community Pharmacist and Founder of PharmacyDownUnder. Listen in as the episode seamlessly weaves Ghassoub’s journey, insights into the challenges and growth within the Pharmacy profession, and a forward-looking vision for the transformative future of Pharmacy services.

Ghassoub starts the conversation by reflecting on their transformative journey within the Pharmacy profession, shedding light on the evolving perception of the role over the past five years. Initially viewing Pharmacy as centered around routine tasks, Ghassoub now emphasizes its multifaceted nature, advocating for a broader understanding beyond dispensing and customer interactions.

The narrative delves into Ghassoub's personal and professional growth, shaped by a family deeply ingrained in healthcare and a mentoring experience that significantly impacted their career trajectory. Expressing gratitude for the impactful guidance received during their internship, Gus highlights the rarity of such supportive mentorship in the Pharmacy field, culminating in the creation of Pharmacy DownUnder—a platform aimed at filling the void in mentorship and knowledge-sharing for Pharmacy interns. COVID-19's impact on the Pharmacy profession becomes a focal point, with Ghassoub addressing the challenges faced by new graduates during the pandemic. The discussion pivots towards bridging the gap between clinical knowledge and effective communication, emphasizing the importance of balancing high-level clinical thinking with accessible language for community engagement.

Ghassoub then unfolds the intricacies of adapting to online platforms, sharing insights into content creation for Pharmacy interns and early career Pharmacists on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube. The importance of maintaining a growth mindset and the power of delayed gratification is emphasized, offering practical advice for personal and professional development.

The episode concludes with Ghassoub's forward-looking perspective on the rapid evolution of Pharmacy, anticipating expanded prescribing rights and increased service accessibility. The overarching theme underscores the Pharmacist's role as a health professional, promoting a community-centric approach and positioning Pharmacies as pivotal contributors to healthcare services.

Ep 94 Ghassoub El Assaad's Pharmacy DownUnder: Bridging Gaps, Sharing Wisdom

In this episode of the Pharmacy View Podcast, Founder Host Scott Carpenter is joined by Natalie Sirianni, Director & Officer in Effective Control of Attain Pty Ltd, Director of Musculoskeletal Australia, and a Board Member of the Australian Institute of Business Brokers (AIBB). As a leading expert in Pharmacy business brokerage, Natalie offers a deep dive into the current trends and transformations within the industry. From navigating the impacts of the 60-day dispensing policy to leveraging the benefits of the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA), Natalie provides a comprehensive analysis of how these changes are reshaping the market. Join us to explore how the enthusiasm of emerging Pharmacists and the resilience of the industry are creating new opportunities and driving growth in the Pharmacy business.

Natalie outlines their work in Pharmacy valuations and brokerage, including the impact of recent legislative changes such as the 60-day dispensing policy. Natalie explains the cyclical nature of Pharmacy valuations, influenced by economic conditions, community Pharmacy agreements, and interest rates. They highlight the industry's resilience during downturns and how its performance through events like COVID-19 has showcased its stability. Despite challenges such as the 60-day dispensing legislation, banks remain confident in lending to Pharmacies due to their consistent financial performance.

The discussion turns to the 60-day dispensing policy, which initially caused uncertainty and panic in the market. As the policy was implemented, the industry began to recover as the financial impacts became clearer. Natalie notes that while the new system introduced challenges, it allowed for better quantification and adjustment, showcasing the industry's ability to navigate changes with resilience and a historical perspective.

Natalie also addresses the broader impacts of the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) and the new payments related to the 60-day dispensing policy. The 8CPA provides increased funding and stability, contrasting with the initial uncertainty of the transition period. This agreement has bolstered market confidence, leading to increased buyer interest and a resurgence in Pharmacy transactions. Sellers, particularly those nearing retirement who had previously postponed sales, are now re-engaging with the market, and valuations are expected to stabilize as confidence returns.

Natalie further talks about the invaluable role of young Pharmacists entering the industry through mentorship and succession plans. They describe this dynamic as mutually beneficial: younger Pharmacists gain essential knowledge and business acumen from their more experienced counterparts, while seasoned professionals receive fresh energy and enthusiasm. Natalie believes this intergenerational collaboration is crucial for the continued growth and vitality of the Pharmacy sector, fostering a positive transition and ensuring that the industry remains vibrant and forward-looking.

EP 103 - Pharmacy View Podcast - Pharmacy Valuations & Trends: What’s Hot in the Industry?

In this episode of Pharmacy Podcast, a stream of Pharmacy View Podcast that provides regular interviews with Pharmacy leaders, entrepreneurs, and members of The Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA), host Melody Mugari, a Pharmacist and Programs and Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Independent Pharmacies of Australia Group (IPA) sits down with Brad Butt, an influential figure in the Pharmacy Community. As the Founder and Lead Pharmacist at Mens Health Downunder and the Managing Partner at Cooleman Court Pharmacy in Weston ACT, Brad has made significant strides in advancing men’s health services across Australia. Join Melody and Brad as they delve into his inspiring journey from Community Pharmacy to establishing a leading male health clinic, explore the challenges and rewards of expanding healthcare services, and discuss the pivotal role of Pharmacists in providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

Useful Links

Register for the 2024 Australasian Mens Health Downunder Conference: MHD2024-Conference-Home | MHDU2024

Pharmacists’ Support Service: - Pharmacists' Support Services

PSA’s Pharmacist to Pharmacist Advice Line: Contact us | Pharmaceutical Society of Australia

Pharmacy Podcast - Ep 5 - Brad Butt: Breaking Barriers in Men's Health Downunder

In this episode of Pharmacy Podcast, a stream of Pharmacy View Podcast that provides regular interviews with Pharmacy leaders, entrepreneurs, and members of The Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA), host Melody Mugari, a Pharmacist and Programs and Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Independent Pharmacies of Australia Group (IPA) interviews John Kardis, Pharmacist and Director of Buy-IT-Right. John shares his inspiring journey from facing challenges in entering Pharmacy school to co-founding a successful Pharmacy network. His story highlights the importance of perseverance, community engagement, and innovative technology in transforming Pharmacy operations.

Pharmacy Podcast - Ep 6 -The Power of Automation: John Kardis & Buy-IT-Right's Impact on Pharmacy

In this episode of Pharmacy View Podcast’s Full Scope Pharmacy Leadership stream, host, Chantelle Turner, a Pharmacist Leadership and Business Coach at TURN Pharmacy Leadership, speaks with Curtis Ruhnau, Pharmacist, a partner at Emerton Pharmacy and President of the Pharmacists' Support Service (PSS). Curtis reflects on their journey into the pharmacy profession, driven by a passion for chronic care management and a commitment to supporting both patients and fellow Pharmacists. They share insights into Emerton Pharmacy’s recent dual recognition in 2024, winning Excellence in Community Engagement and Excellence in Harm Minimisation, demonstrating their dedication to patient care and public health.

Curtis discusses the increasing importance of mental health and self-awareness within the Pharmacy profession, particularly post-COVID, where many Pharmacists face stress, uncertainty, and isolation. Drawing from their experience teaching medical students about self-awareness, Curtis highlights the need for greater advocacy around mental well-being in Pharmacy. They address how these challenges manifest in the evolving landscape of full-scope Pharmacy practice and emphasise the value of honest communication and proactive strategies for maintaining mental health.

Curtis shares personal insights into managing stress, emphasising the importance of acknowledging imposter syndrome and viewing it as a prompt for continuous learning. They describe their own approach to upskilling and self-care, sharing personal practices like reflection and stress management techniques. Curtis further underscores the role of mentorship, community, and teamwork in professional success, acknowledging that leadership often involves collective effort and support.

The episode concludes with a powerful discussion on the value of "listening with intention" in leadership. Curtis recounts lessons learned from Indigenous elders about the significance of deep listening and emotional intelligence in building empathetic and supportive teams. They highlight how small, intentional actions can strengthen the pharmacy community and foster a culture of care, reinforcing that empathy and active listening are essential for effective leadership and long-term growth in the profession.

EP 104 -Pharmacy View Podcast -Navigating Full-Scope Pharmacy:Teamwork, Mentorship, & Self-Awareness

In this episode of Pharmacy View Podcast’s Pharmacy Career, Resource & Training stream, host Kavita Nadan, Pharmacist and Founder at Locumate is joined by Jenny Kirschner, a Pharmacist and the Founder of Pharmacy Addressing Loneliness and Social-isolation (PALS). Jenny reflects on their unique career journey and the pivotal moments that inspired them to address the widespread issue of loneliness, particularly in healthcare settings. They explain how, despite some initial uncertainty in their Pharmacy career, they eventually carved out a meaningful path that prioritises authentic connection and patient care. Jenny’s story is a reminder that Pharmacists can bring their natural talents and passions into their work, creating impactful opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Jenny shares insights into some of the creative ventures they’ve spearheaded, including "Mother Funkers," a daytime dance party for mothers and their children. This initiative, designed to combat the isolation many mothers face, provided a joyful and energising space for moms to connect. Jenny’s entrepreneurial spirit also led them into the world of gluten-free chocolate making, an example of how following one’s passions can create unexpected, fulfilling career opportunities. Jenny encourages others to be bold in embracing their true selves, no matter their career path, as it can open doors to new and exciting endeavours.

A significant focus of the conversation is Jenny’s work with PALS, which was inspired by their own experiences with loneliness during their Pharmacy studies and early career. PALS addresses the growing issue of loneliness, a concern that became even more pressing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jenny highlights the crucial role that Pharmacists can play in identifying lonely individuals and advocating for mental health within their communities. Through persistent outreach, Jenny developed a comprehensive training program that equips Pharmacists to address social isolation, helping them create stronger connections with patients and support mental well-being.

Jenny also discusses the development of their accredited online training course, which teaches Pharmacists how to recognise and address loneliness in their patients. Featuring insights from global experts and real-life case studies, the course offers practical tools for Pharmacists to make a difference in their communities. Jenny stresses that Pharmacists, because of their close and frequent interactions with patients, are ideally placed to address social isolation, often through simple, yet meaningful, gestures. This course underscores the powerful impact Pharmacists can have on the lives of their customers beyond just filling prescriptions.

As the episode wraps up, Jenny shares plans for the next 12 to 18 months, including a much-needed break to recharge and a national awareness campaign to further address loneliness. They invite others who share this passion to join the campaign and share their stories, emphasising the importance of collaboration and community support. Jenny’s reflections on balance and well-being, both in personal life and professional ambitions, serve as a valuable reminder that taking care of oneself is just as important as the work being done to care for others. This episode highlights the evolving role of Pharmacists and the growing need to address social isolation in healthcare.

EP 105 - Pharmacy View Podcast -Loneliness in Plain Sight:Simple Signs Your Pharmacy Team Can Detect

In this episode of Pharmacy Podcast, a stream of Pharmacy View Podcast that provides regular interviews with Pharmacy leaders, entrepreneurs, and members of The Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA), host Melody Mugari, a Pharmacist and Programs and Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Independent Pharmacies of Australia Group (IPA) welcomes Pharmacist and Chemist Discount Center partner, Kavita Nadan, who is also the Co-Founder of Locumate. From her journey as a first-generation migrant from Fiji to becoming a trailblazer in the Australian Pharmacy industry, Kavita shares her remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and innovation. With a passion for empowering others and streamlining healthcare processes, Kavita discusses her path to Pharmacy ownership, her unique approach to team leadership, and her venture into the entrepreneurial world with Locumate. This conversation offers valuable insights into balancing personal and professional aspirations, and Kavita’s mission to shape the future of Pharmacy and beyond.

Pharmacy Podcast - Ep 7 - The Power of People: Kavita’s Approach to Pharmacy Success

In this engaging episode of the Pharmacy View Podcast’s Rx to Riches stream, international host Michael Alexander, a Pharmacist, entrepreneur, digital health enthusiast, Co-Founder of Audirie, and the Regional Vice-President of Health Plans at Omada Health, hosts Erin Fawcett, the Executive Director of Education and Professional Development at NAPSA, and Sebastian Harper, the National President of NAPSA. Together, they delve into the transformative roles of education, leadership, and advocacy in shaping the future of the Pharmacy profession. With personal insights, professional experiences, and a shared passion for advancing the Pharmacy industry, this episode offers an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

Erin and Sebastian discuss the significant impact of NAPSA (National Australian Pharmacy Students' Association) on Pharmacy students' professional growth. Erin highlights how NAPSA acts as the peak advocacy body for students, offering unparalleled networking opportunities that build professional relationships and enhance knowledge for future success. Sebastian underscores the importance of NAPSA's national advocacy efforts, ensuring student concerns are heard by government bodies and stakeholders. Michael reflects on his own career, encouraging students to prioritise networking to unlock new opportunities and further their professional development.

A key focus of the episode is NAPSA's efforts to combat "placement poverty," a pressing issue for students facing financial burdens during mandatory placements. Erin and Sebastian outline their campaign for government support similar to that provided to nursing students, aiming to make university more accessible amidst the rising cost-of-living pressures. Their advocacy reflects a broader mission to support Pharmacy students by improving accessibility and fostering an inclusive educational environment that enables future professionals to thrive.

The discussion also explores the challenges and rewards of balancing leadership responsibilities at NAPSA with full-time studies and work commitments. Erin shares how teamwork and a shared vision for advancing the Pharmacy profession fuel their dedication to student advocacy, while Sebastian highlights the role of collaboration among NAPSA committees in managing the workload effectively. Both emphasise the lasting impact of their initiatives on the Pharmacy community, illustrating how passion and teamwork drive meaningful progress.

Erin and Sebastian conclude with an inspiring vision for the future of Pharmacy, imagining a shift towards greater accessibility and a service-based model. They envision Pharmacies becoming integral hubs in Australia’s healthcare system, leveraging Pharmacists' expertise to ease pressures on the system and enhance patient care.

This is only the beginning of their insightful discussion, with Part Two of this engaging conversation set to be released next week. Stay tuned!

EP 106 - Pharmacy View Podcast - Leading the Change: NAPSA’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Pharmacists

In this captivating second part of the Pharmacy View Podcast’s Rx to Riches stream, international host Michael Alexander, a Pharmacist, entrepreneur, digital health enthusiast, Co-Founder of Audirie, and the Regional Vice-President of Health Plans at Omada Health, continues his insightful conversation with Erin Fawcett, the Executive Director of Education and Professional Development at NAPSA, and Sebastian Harper, the National President of NAPSA. Together, they explore how NAPSA is driving innovation in Pharmacy education and empowering students to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. From AI-driven tools to fostering interprofessional collaboration, this episode sheds light on the transformative initiatives shaping the future of Pharmacy practice.

The discussion delves into the rising prominence of Pharmacist-led prescribing and other advanced roles within the healthcare system. Erin highlights NAPSA's use of cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-powered counselling simulations, to prepare students for the complexities of modern patient care. Sebastian adds that NAPSA’s initiatives encourage students to expand their skills beyond traditional degrees, focusing on enhancing patient care through continuous learning and innovation. Together, they underscore the importance of education and teamwork in addressing challenges like disease management and medication accessibility.

The episode also explores the integration of AI into Pharmacy education and its impact on team training. Michael introduces Audirie’s AI-driven simulations for NAPSA members, enabling students to practise patient interactions with precision and confidence. Erin and Sebastian discuss how AI complements traditional training, helping all Pharmacy team members—from Pharmacists to assistants—perform at the top of their scope. This holistic approach aims to bridge skill gaps and elevate the overall standard of patient care, highlighting the critical balance between technology and human expertise in healthcare.

Addressing the barriers in Pharmacy education, the conversation turns to placement opportunities and financial challenges. Erin advocates for reforms to ensure students have access to earlier and paid placements, improving experiential learning. Sebastian emphasises the value of rural placements for interprofessional collaboration and community impact, while Michael calls on universities and governments to ease the financial burdens that deter students from pursuing careers in underserved areas. These measures are seen as vital to building a robust and sustainable Pharmacy workforce.

The episode concludes with excitement about the upcoming NAPSA Congress, the pinnacle event for Pharmacy students in Australia. Hosted at the University of Queensland, this week-long conference offers educational sessions, workshops, a trade expo, and vibrant social events. Sebastian shares their hopes for record-breaking attendance, while Erin highlights the benefits of NAPSA membership, including networking, scholarships, and mentoring opportunities. Together, they celebrate the Congress’s enduring legacy and its role in shaping the future of Pharmacy in Australia and New Zealand.

EP 107 - Pharmacy View Podcast-Bridging Gaps in Healthcare: NAPSA’s Vision for a New Era of Pharmacy

Welcome to Pharmacy View – Technology in Pharmacy Business Podcast Series where we provide regular interviews with Pharmacists and key industry people within the Australian Pharmacy and associated industry. In each podcast we look to discuss aspects of Pharmacy operation and how technology is improving or interacting with each guest’s current role or Pharmacy related business.