In our previous article, “Pharmacy Through the Decade – What Has Changed in 10 Years?”, we explored the changes in pharmacy over the last decade. This naturally led us to wonder: What will pharmacy look like 10 years from now?
According to the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA) Pharmacists in 2030 white paper, the profession is on the brink of significant transformation within the next five years. The report highlights several key trends set to redefine pharmacy, from technological advancements and expanded scopes of practice to a stronger emphasis on patient-centred care and collaboration with other health professionals. We’ve broken these trends down for you below:
Expanded Roles and Integrated Care
By 2030, pharmacists are expected to play an even more integral role within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. As primary care becomes more team-based, pharmacists will work alongside doctors, nurses, and other health professionals to optimise patient outcomes. The PSA report predicts that pharmacists will take on a greater role in managing chronic diseases, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to healthcare is often limited.
This expanded role may also include increased prescribing rights for pharmacists. This aligns with trends in countries like the UK and Canada, where pharmacists already have broader scopes of practice. As trusted medication experts, pharmacists are well-positioned to manage patients’ medication plans, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and asthma.
Embracing Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence
Technology will be a key driver of change in pharmacy by 2030. The rise of digital health tools—such as telehealth, wearable health devices, and mobile apps—is already transforming how patients interact with healthcare providers. Pharmacists will increasingly use these technologies to deliver virtual consultations, monitor patients’ adherence to medications, and provide real-time health interventions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also set to play a major role in reshaping pharmacy. AI-powered systems can analyse large datasets to identify patterns, predict patient outcomes, and assist in clinical decision-making. For pharmacists, this could lead to more efficient workflows, freeing up time for patient-facing activities. However, the integration of AI will require pharmacists to upskill in digital literacy to effectively leverage these tools.
Preventive Healthcare and Public Health
As healthcare systems shift their focus from treating illnesses to preventing them, pharmacists are poised to become key players in preventive care. With the ability to administer vaccines, conduct health screenings, and counsel patients on lifestyle changes, pharmacists will play a more significant role in public health initiatives. The white paper envisions a future where pharmacists lead efforts to promote health and wellness, particularly in communities where they are often the most accessible healthcare providers.
Challenges and Opportunities
While these developments are promising, the white paper also highlights potential challenges. Continuous professional development will be essential to keep pace with advancements in technology and expanded practice scopes. Additionally, securing adequate funding for new pharmacy services—particularly preventive care and chronic disease management—will be crucial for sustaining these changes.
Despite these challenges, the future of pharmacy looks bright. The PSA’s vision for 2030 positions pharmacists as vital contributors to Australia’s healthcare system, with expanded roles, advanced technologies, and a stronger focus on patient-centred care within the next five years.
As the profession evolves, pharmacists will continue to be at the forefront of improving health outcomes—one patient at a time. We’re excited to see how much the profession will transform in the next decade.
For more information, you can explore the full “Pharmacists in 2030” white paper here
