In this 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, interviews Kerri Barwick, GM of Education & Training at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA). Kerri shares their unique journey from business studies to Pharmacy, highlighting their innovative approach to training and the evolving role of Pharmacists. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on overcoming industry challenges and the exciting future of Pharmacy.

Kerri shares their inspiring journey into the Pharmacy profession, starting as a casual Pharmacy Assistant in high school. Initially pursuing a business degree, Kerri found themselves drawn back to Pharmacy roles, eventually deciding to study Pharmacy while raising young children. This blend of business acumen and Pharmacy skills has enabled Kerri to create innovative training programs at PSA, leading to rapid career advancement into their current leadership role.

Kerri discusses how their unique career path has influenced their approach to Pharmacy. Unlike many who transition from Pharmacy to business studies, Kerri's journey began with a business degree. This provided them with a distinct perspective on the importance of business skills in Pharmacy. Kerri underscores the support banner groups offer to Pharmacists in areas like marketing and business management, although they believe more can be done to enhance Pharmacists' understanding of customer relationships and long-term business value.

In their role at PSA, Kerri oversees a wide range of responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration. They manage the organization of major conferences like PSA-24, various educational workshops, and qualifications such as the Diploma of Leadership Management. Additionally, Kerri oversees CPD products and new credentials like Pharmacist Prescribing. Building relationships through meetings with partners, universities, and internal teams is crucial to achieving the department's goals, according to Kerri.

Kerri highlights the significant challenges faced by Pharmacists, including time constraints and workforce shortages, especially in rural and remote areas. They emphasize the need for flexible training programs that can be accessed anytime and anywhere to accommodate these challenges. Despite the increasing demand for Pharmacists due to expanded roles like immunization and aged care, the profession often struggles with recognition and respect. Nonetheless, Kerri remains optimistic about the positive changes and increased authority Pharmacists are beginning to experience.

Kerri further discusses the complexities of training Pharmacy professionals in a demanding work environment, stressing the importance of balancing work and continuing education. They note the debate over the necessary training for Pharmacists to prescribe medications, pointing out that many Pharmacists already possess the required competencies. The competency framework helps identify training gaps, and Kerri stresses the importance of professional judgment and CPD in addressing these gaps. While acknowledging the differing views on training requirements, Kerri is hopeful about the evolving role of Pharmacists and the exciting opportunities on the horizon. 

Note: This insightful discussion is part one of the episode, with the second part to be released next week.

EP 101 - Pharmacy View Podcast - Evolving Roles: How Pharmacists are Meeting New Challenges

In this 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, interviews Kerri Barwick, GM of Education & Training at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA). In this episode, Kerri sheds light on the revolutionary AI-powered training simulation platform Audirie and its transformative impact on Pharmacy education. This episode delves into the journey of integrating AI into training, the challenges faced, and the remarkable benefits observed, offering listeners a glimpse into the future of Pharmacy training and education. Join us as we explore how Audirie is setting new standards in the industry and hear Kerri’s insights on the upcoming PSA National Conference and its focus on "Pathways to Progress."

Kerri delves into the innovative launch of Audirie, an AI-powered training simulation platform designed to enhance performance evidence in Community Pharmacy Training. This world-first initiative allows for realistic customer interactions, surpassing traditional methods like written evidence and phone simulations. It not only meets compliance requirements but also offers invaluable feedback for learners, marking a significant advancement in pharmacy education.

Kerri discusses the numerous advantages of the AI-powered training tool, Audirie, in enhancing Pharmacy education. They emphasize that the tool provides objective and constructive feedback, significantly improving Pharmacists' communication and counseling skills. While technical knowledge remains crucial, effective communication can greatly enhance patient interactions and overall professional satisfaction. The potential for Audirie to standardize training and boost confidence among Pharmacy interns is highlighted, leading to improved patient care and professional development.

Kerri also addresses the challenges and benefits of preceptor training in Pharmacy education. Despite PSA offering accredited preceptor training, it remains non-mandatory, resulting in many preceptors lacking formal teaching skills, which impacts the quality of intern training. Kerri underscores the value of AI-powered tools like Audirie in providing objective feedback, enhancing communication skills, and boosting confidence among pharmacy interns. They share personal experiences, noting the advantages of having clear, recorded assessments over subjective feedback, which can significantly enhance the learning experience.

Addressing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding AI in Pharmacy training, Kerri explains that some resistance stems from a lack of understanding of AI technology, particularly its ability to handle dynamic and natural conversations. Despite initial awkwardness, AI avatars have proven to be highly responsive and capable of managing complex scenarios and varied interactions. Kerri emphasizes the importance of continuous testing to fully understand AI’s capabilities and benefits in educational settings, encouraging organizations to embrace this technology.

In the final segment, Kerri offers advice to organizations considering AI-powered training solutions, stressing the importance of setting realistic timeframes and recognizing the technology's vast potential. They also preview the upcoming PSA conference, highlighting its theme "Pathways to Progress" and the exciting range of sessions and networking opportunities. Kerri emphasizes the value of connecting with peers and gaining inspiration from the event to rejuvenate one's passion for the Pharmacy profession, encouraging attendees to engage fully in this transformative experience.

EP 102 - Pharmacy View Podcast - AI in Action: Enhancing Pharmacy Training with Audirie

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

In this 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, speaks with Angela Stathopoulos, Group Manager of Education and Development at Chemist Warehouse. With nearly 30 years of experience across community, regulatory, and hospital Pharmacy sectors, Angela discusses her dedication to fostering the next generation of Pharmacy professionals. She elaborates on Chemist Warehouse’s dynamic approach to training, highlighting initiatives aimed at advancing Pharmacy practice, developing new services, and supporting early-career Pharmacists. Angela’s journey reflects a passion for embracing opportunities, which she encourages in those looking to grow within the field.

Angela dives into the extensive training programs offered by Chemist Warehouse, ranging from an internally developed internship program to advanced CPD courses. Key initiatives like "Leading for the Future" and "Step Up" were designed to meet the evolving demands of the Pharmacy industry, and Angela explains that these programs were developed in consultation with stakeholders, providing both leadership training and support for early-career Pharmacists. Her approach emphasises Chemist Warehouse’s commitment to equipping Pharmacists with essential skills to navigate the ever-changing Pharmacy landscape while ensuring consistent, high-quality training across all locations.

To achieve this consistency, Angela describes a hybrid model of in-person and online training, made possible through platforms like Zoom and AI-driven tools for Pharmacy assistant training. The integration of AI, she explains, is pivotal for maintaining scalable and standardised training, especially across Australia’s remote areas. However, Angela stresses that AI tools are only as effective as the team managing them, ensuring that quality standards are met. This combination of technology and human oversight allows Chemist Warehouse to meet the educational needs of Pharmacists in varied geographic regions while maintaining flexibility and adaptability.

Internationally, Angela shares the challenges and successes of adapting Chemist Warehouse’s Australian training models for different regions, such as New Zealand, Ireland, and the UAE. Each region brings unique regulatory and cultural needs, requiring collaboration with local experts to ensure training aligns with local standards. Angela emphasises the importance of collecting feedback from both trainees and regional authorities, which informs improvements and adjustments to training programs. This feedback loop is essential for refining programs in a way that balances the needs of learners and the organisation, ensuring a strong return on investment.

The conversation then shifts to the evolving skill requirements for Pharmacists, which have expanded from purely clinical skills to include critical soft skills like empathy, communication, and problem-solving. Angela explains that while technical expertise remains foundational, handling complex patient interactions and regulatory issues requires a broader skill set.

Closing on a light-hearted note, Michael humorously offers Angela "magic powers" to enhance Chemist Warehouse's training program, to which Angela replies that she would clone her dedicated team to better address training demands. They discuss upcoming programs, such as the "Step Up" initiative for student Pharmacists and a Managing Partner pathway aimed at guiding Pharmacists from entry-level roles to ownership opportunities within the company. Angela's insights reveal Chemist Warehouse’s focus on career development and innovation, underscoring their commitment to expanding Pharmacists' clinical responsibilities and supporting a holistic approach to patient care.

EP 109 - Pharmacy View Podcast - Building a Better Pharmacy Workforce: The Chemist Warehouse Way

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.

New tracks tagged #PharmacyEducation