Celebrating Australia’s pharmacy technicians and assistants

Today is Pharmacists Technicians and Assistants Day recognising the pharmacy staff’s hard work and dedication.  The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS emphasised the critical role that pharmacy technicians and assistants play in supporting clinical services.

“As the scope of practice for many pharmacists continues to expand, the role of pharmacy assistants and technicians is becoming even more integral to everything we do. From administrative or backend support to direct patient interactions, their contribution to the overall team capacity and efficiency is invaluable,” she said.

Pharmacy technicians and assistants are not only involved in the operational aspects of pharmacy practice; they are increasingly taking direct responsibilities to support the role of pharmacists in clinical settings.

“The clinical support that technicians and assistants provide allows pharmacists to extend their focus to undertaking clinical roles and practising to their full and top of scope, including in the long-term management of diseases, preventive health services, and complex medication therapy,” Associate Professor Sim added. “Their contributions are vital to the seamless integration of clinical services in our pharmacies, ultimately improving health outcomes for our communities.”

Associate Professor Sim encouraged all pharmacists to take a moment today to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of their technicians and assistants. “Whether through a formal recognition event or simply a kind word of appreciation, today is a day to show our gratitude for their vital role in the pharmacy profession,” she said.