Category: Pharmacy Insights

Pharmacists in 2030: What Will It Really Look Like in Just 5 Years?

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

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

Regards,
Ella Shearing 

National Skin Cancer Action Week: Raising Awareness for Skin Health in Australia

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Skin cancer significantly impacts Australians, making National Skin Cancer Action Week a critical time to focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment. With one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, one in two Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. This pressing public health challenge requires ongoing awareness and proactive measures.

Australia’s high UV radiation levels, combined with an outdoor lifestyle, contribute to the elevated incidence of skin cancer. However, early detection plays a pivotal role in increasing treatment success rates. Regular skin checks, both professional and self-assessments, are vital for identifying changes in the skin. Australians are encouraged to perform monthly self-exams, paying attention to new moles or changes in existing ones, and seeking medical advice for any concerning developments.

Key Prevention Strategies Highlighted During National Skin Cancer Action Week:

  1. Slip, Slop, Slap: This iconic campaign urges Australians to:
    • Slip on protective clothing.
    • Slop on a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, applying generously and reapplying every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
    • Slap on a hat to shield the face, neck, and ears.
  2. Seek Shade: Minimise sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
  3. Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB rays.

How to Get Involved:

National Skin Cancer Action Week offers many ways for individuals and communities to raise awareness and promote education:

  • Community Events: Attend local skin cancer screenings or educational seminars organised by healthcare providers.
  • Social Media Campaigns: Share informative posts, tips, or personal stories to spread awareness about skin cancer prevention and early detection.
  • Fundraising Activities: Support organisations dedicated to skin cancer research and education through donations or events.

This week is an opportunity for Australians to reflect on their skin health and adopt sun-safe practices. By remaining vigilant about changes to our skin and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively reduce the incidence of skin cancer in our communities.

The Role of Pharmacists

As pharmacists, we have a vital role in educating patients about the importance of skin protection. By providing resources, sunscreen recommendations, and advice on UV exposure risks, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their skin health.

Let’s use National Skin Cancer Action Week as a platform to drive meaningful conversations and actions around skin cancer prevention and awareness.

Regards,
Vedrana Djurkovic

AI Job Ads Creation: Revolutionising Pharmacy Recruitment on Locumate

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Picture this: It’s another busy day at your pharmacy, prescriptions are piling up, patients need attention, and you’ve just learned that one of your pharmacists is moving out of state. Now, on top of everything else, you need to craft the perfect job posting to find their replacement. Sound familiar? That’s why we created Locumate’s AI Job Ads Creator – your new secret weapon for effortless pharmacy recruitment.  

Why Did We Introduce This Feature? 

 Let’s be honest – nobody went to pharmacy school dreaming about writing job advertisements. Yet here you are, spending precious hours trying to craft the perfect posting that will attract your next star team member. Our pharmacy partners told us their stories: 

  • “I keep a document of old job posts that I copy and paste from…” 
  • “I never know if I’m including everything important…” 
  • “The last thing I want to do after a 12-hour shift is write a job description…” 
  • “Sometimes I worry I might scare away good candidates with poorly written ads…” 

These conversations sparked an idea: What if we could make creating professional job ads as easy as filling a prescription? That’s exactly what our AI Job Ads Creator does. 

How Does It Work? 

We’ve made the process so simple, it feels like magic (though it’s actually sophisticated AI working behind the scenes): 

 1. Quick Input  

  • Tell us the basics: Work Type, Job Title, Location, Job Category, Skills, Payment Time with Min. and Max. wages, Bonus.

2. AI Magic  

  • Watch as our AI crafts a perfectly structured job description with respect to the given inputs. 
  • See company introduction, job responsibilities and requirements appear automatically. 
  • Get suggestions for attractive benefits and perks. 
  • And software and tools too. 

 3. Personal Touch  

  • Review and tweak the content to your liking. 
  • Maybe you can add your pharmacy’s unique culture and values. 
  • Make it truly yours with custom details. 

4. Add Question

  • Ask questions to your applicants from various input types. 

 

JobAd3

5. Make Payment  

  • Pay the fees and Publish the Job Ad. 
  • Or Save as a draft. 
JobAd4
JobAd5

Think of it as having a professional recruiter and copywriter rolled into one, available 24/7, and working at the speed of light. 

What Are the Benefits? 

Here’s where it gets exciting. Our AI Job Ads Creator isn’t just saving time – it’s transforming how pharmacies approach recruitment: 

Time is Money (And We Save You Both) 

  • Create professional ads in under few minutes. 
  • No more late nights writing job descriptions. 
  • More time for what matters – your patients and team. 

 Quality That Stands Out 

  • Eye-catching, professional content that attracts top talent. 
  • Consistently polished and engaging descriptions. 
  • The perfect balance of professional and personable. 

 Smarter Recruitment 

  • Attract better-matched candidates. 
  • Reduce time spent screening unsuitable applications. 
  • Fill positions faster with better fits. 

Peace of Mind 

  • Never worry about missing crucial requirements. 
  • Always up-to-date with industry standards. 
  • Inclusive language that welcomes all qualified candidates. 

Your Next Great Hire is Just a Click Away 

Remember when automated dispensing systems seemed revolutionary? Now they’re essential to modern pharmacy practice. We believe our AI Job Ads Creator will become just as indispensable to pharmacy recruitment. It’s not just about saving time or writing better ads – it’s about giving you the tools to build the team your pharmacy deserves. 

In a world where every minute counts, and finding the right staff is more crucial than ever, Locumate’s AI Job Ads Creator isn’t just a feature – it’s your partner in building the future of pharmacy practice, one perfect job posting at a time. 

Ready to experience the future of pharmacy recruitment? Your perfect job ad is just a few clicks away on Locumate. Because finding great pharmacy staff shouldn’t be harder than finding the right medication. 

Have questions or need assistance? Our dedicated support team is here to help! Reach out to us at [email protected] – we’re always happy to hear from you. 

Rural Health Month Insights

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Rural Health Month is an annual celebration each November that honours rural health professionals. This month-long program features key events such as the National Rural and Remote Health Awards, and the Rural GPs Conference, along with many other educational and networking opportunities designed for rural health professionals. For detailed information on event dates and links, visit Rural Health Month 2024.   

Locum pharmacists play a vital role in supporting our rural and regional communities. This situation creates immense pressure, as one individual is responsible for addressing the diverse healthcare needs of the entire community, leading to stress, worry, and burnout. 

That’s where locums come in. Locum pharmacists are the crucial bridge in providing care in order to support or fill in for other pharmacists. Our pharmacists will often spend weeks to months on long-term locum shifts to support the community and for this we thank you! We are grateful for your support in holding down the fort, ensuring continuity of care and access for all within the community. 

Working in rural and regional areas offers unique rewards and perspectives. It allows pharmacists to break away from the typical 9-to-5 routine, meet diverse people, and develop greater independence and confidence. Additionally, it presents opportunities for both professional and personal growth, along with the chance to travel and experience some spectacular places.

However, working in remote areas can sometimes feel isolating, especially during longer assignments. This makes rural engagement activities and networking events particularly important. We encourage you to participate in this month’s events as part of Rural Health Month, in order to meet like-minded people and share your experiences.

 As a special highlight, we recommend checking out our podcast episode with Shaylee, a pharmacist working in Pilbara, WA. It is well worth the listen! Her insights may inspire you to consider regional or rural work, even if it’s just for a shift. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all locum pharmacists, especially those dedicated to serving rural and regional communities across Australia. Your contributions are invaluable!

Regards,
Ella Shearing 

Protected Breaks

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Lunch breaks in the pharmacy have become a significant pain point. This has been extensively highlighted by numerous discussions on online forums such as Reddit, and it appears this issue has a global reach. In one thread, a pharmacist shared their experience, where they were pressured by their manager to skip breaks and lunches, with the implication that their registration could be “revoked” if they didn’t comply. The pharmacist stood their ground, taking their 30-minute lunch break and two 15-minute breaks as allowed by law, in defiance of the manager. “It drives me crazy when people skip [lunch breaks] and they’re not even getting paid for it!” they shared. 

 

In light of the pressure, the pharmacist took to Reddit to discuss the age-old question: “AITA?” Reaching out to a group of peers to shed insight into the demanding work environment of the pharmacy.

 

This post struck a chord with many others, who shared similar stories of being pushed to the limit by their employers. “They can’t revoke your licence for taking the break you get by law.” one user advised. “Your licence is issued by your state, not by the store, so how do they plan on revoking it?” This sentiment echoed throughout the responses, with many emphasising the importance of understanding state labour laws and standing up for one’s rights.

 

Other users shared experiences from different pharmacy chains, where the situation wasn’t much better. “So when I worked at [a community pharmacy], in my onboarding paperwork I unknowingly signed away my break waiver,” one commenter revealed. After realising the mistake, they cleverly told their employer they would just leave a half hour early to make up for the missed break. It was a small victory in a system that often disregards the well-being of its employees.

 

Another Reddit thread titled “It’s Always About Lunch Breaks” offered an equally frustrating glimpse into the expectations placed on pharmacy staff by the general public. In this thread, a customer shared disapproval for the inefficiencies of pharmacists taking breaks: “People take work off to go to the doctor, and need their meds before they go back. So they’re burning off PTO waiting for a prescription, all because a pharmacist wants to eat a sandwich.” They continued “I get pharmacists want to eat, but people need their meds more.”

 

In response to this, one pharmacist remarked, “If you’re so deathly ill that our measly half-hour break will kill you, get your happy [self] to the ER, as you need more than a prescription.” This comment reflects the immense pressure pharmacists face to be available at all times, even when taking a legally required break. The commenter further noted how many medical clinics shut down entirely for lunch breaks, while pharmacists are often expected to forgo their own.

 

These experiences highlight a broader issue within the pharmacy industry: the unrealistic expectations placed on pharmacists and technicians, which can lead to burnout and reduced job satisfaction. While technological advancements, such as e-scripts, have streamlined many pharmacy processes, the industry’s work culture has lagged. The pressure to skip breaks or work through lunch is a symptom of a larger problem – prioritising profits and patient demand over the well-being of staff.

 

Pharmacists are crucial frontline healthcare providers, yet their working conditions often fail to reflect the importance of their role. Ensuring pharmacists and technicians take their breaks isn’t just a matter of following labour laws; it’s about maintaining a healthy and sustainable workforce. Studies have shown that regular breaks improve employee productivity, mental health, and overall job performance. In a profession where precision and attention to detail are critical, the potential for errors increases when staff are overworked and deprived of necessary rest.

 

While many pharmacists are stepping up and advocating for their rights, it’s clear that systemic change is needed. Employers must prioritise the well-being of their employees, ensuring that breaks are not only encouraged but enforced. The idea that a pharmacist’s time is less valuable than that of other healthcare professionals, must be challenged.

 

The discussions on Reddit offer a snapshot of the broader challenges faced by pharmacists and technicians across the industry. It reveals a broader truth and can be validated for other pharmacists who have been caught in similar positions or left feeling burnt out at the end of the day. The stories shared reveal a stark reality: while pharmacy has evolved in many ways over the past decade, work culture remains stuck in the past. For the future of the profession, it’s essential that both employers and regulatory bodies recognise the importance of employee well-being. After all, a healthy pharmacist is a better pharmacist, and ultimately, that benefits patients too.

https://www.reddit.com/r/PharmacyTechnician/comments/1839xi8/what_do_you_do_if_your_denied_a_breaklunch/ AITA breaks 

https://www.reddit.com/r/pharmacy/comments/12hzogd/its_always_about_lunch_breaks/

 

Regards,
Ella Shearing 

Unlock The Perfect Match: Locumate’s New Smart Tagging System!

Posted on | by Bayleigh S
What is Tagging? 

Get ready for a game-changing update that’s just around the corner! We’re excited to give you a sneak peek at an upcoming feature that will revolutionise how you can categorise talent with opportunity in the pharmacy world. This powerful tagging feature is exclusively available as part of our subscription-based service for pharmacies to manage their internal pool, allowing you to streamline your talent management process like never before. Not a subscriber yet? Don’t miss out on this transformative functionality! Connect with us at [email protected] to learn more about how you can unlock this feature and take your pharmacy to the next level. 

 How does it work? 

Step 1: Access your account 

Begin by signing into your Manager Account. This is your control hub where you can oversee and manage all settings. 

Step 2: Dive into tag management 

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Once logged in, locate the “Manage Tags” option in the navigation menu. This is your gateway to organising and customising how tags are used within your system. 

Step 3: Master the art of tag management 

In the Manage Tags area, you’ll find a variety of tools at your disposal: 

Search for tags: Quickly find existing tags with a simple search. This tool helps you filter through tags based on keywords or attributes. 
Create new tags: Launch the tag creator to forge new tags. Here, you can define the tag’s name and attributes, tailoring it to suit specific needs. 
Edit existing tags: Select any tag to modify its details. This feature allows you to adapt tags to evolving requirements. 
Delete tags: Remove outdated or unnecessary tags to keep your system streamlined and efficient

Step 4: Assign tags

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Navigate to individual profiles of pharmacies or users to assign tags directly. This step ensures that each entity is accurately tagged, enhancing the organisation and retrieval of information. 

Step 5: Gain Complete Visibility Control 

With tags appropriately assigned, you now have granular control over the visibility of shifts and other critical elements within your system. This ensures that the right information is accessible to the right users, enhancing both security and functionality. 

 The Future is Tagged 

 This new system isn’t just about making connections; it’s more about making the right correlation between locums and pharmacies to help managers. By harnessing the power of targeted tagging, we’re creating a more efficient, satisfying experience for everyone in our community. 

 

Pharmacy Through the Decade – What Has Changed in 10 Years?

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Over the last decade, the community pharmacy landscape has undergone significant innovations. These changes have been driven by technological advancements and evolving regulations – with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating this over the last 5 years. Let’s dive into the key shifts that have shaped the pharmacy landscape and consider what the future might hold.

Technological Innovations

Technology has revolutionised the way pharmacies operate, making processes more efficient and patient-centred. One notable advancement is eRx, which has streamlined the script-dispensing process. Patients now have access to greater flexibility with their prescriptions, thanks to systems like MySL that allow repeats to be dispensed without a physical script or QR code. This digital shift not only improves convenience but also enhances the transparency of patient history, aiding in safer healthcare delivery.

Another critical development is the introduction of the electronic S8 register, which simplifies the management of Schedule 8 medications. By digitising this process, pharmacies have been able to maintain better records and ensure compliance with regulations more efficiently.

Regulatory Changes

Regulations governing pharmacy practices have also seen significant updates. For instance, the implementation of the SafeScript program (also known as QScript, ScriptCheck and many more names depending on which state you’re from) has been a game-changer in managing high-risk medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines. Real-time prescription monitoring (RTPM) through SafeScript has enhanced transparency and helped pharmacists make safer clinical decisions for their patients.

The Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) is another vital addition. In response to global medicine shortages, including common drugs like amoxicillin and metformin, the SSSI provides advice and recommendations for allowing pharmacists to supply substitutable medications during times of scarcity. This flexibility has been crucial in ensuring continued patient care amidst supply chain disruptions.

Expanding Roles and Responsibilities

Pharmacists’ roles have expanded beyond traditional dispensing functions. Continued Dispensing, particularly useful during COVID-19 when GP appointments were hard to come by, has now become essential for rural and regional patients who face geographic barriers to healthcare access.

Pharmacists have also stepped up as key players in public health, with vaccination services growing to include over 20 types of vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines. This shift not only enhances community health outcomes but also cements the role of pharmacists as frontline healthcare providers.

In addition, Pharmacist Prescribing is now a reality, with pharmacists authorised to prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs. This change empowers pharmacists to provide more comprehensive care, though it comes with added responsibilities and the need for ongoing professional development.

Controversies and Challenges

Not all changes have been welcomed uniformly. The introduction of 60-day dispensing for certain PBS-listed medicines, aimed at reducing costs and doctor visits, has sparked debate. While it offers convenience for patients, many pharmacists are concerned about potential safety issues, such as the risk of medication hoarding, and have faced financial losses due to reduced dispensing fees.

Similarly, the rescheduling of codeine to S4 (prescription-only) from S3 (pharmacist-only) has stirred discussions. While the move aims to curb misuse and addiction, it also reflects a growing concern over pharmacists’ roles as gatekeepers for potentially harmful substances. 

Looking Ahead

The past decade has seen pharmacists in Australia embrace new roles, technologies, and regulations, all aimed at enhancing patient care and safety. But as the landscape continues to evolve, it raises an important question: What will the next ten years hold for community pharmacy?

Will we see even more integration of digital tools? How will ongoing regulatory changes shape the profession? One thing is certain: the role of the community pharmacist will continue to expand, requiring adaptability and a commitment to professional development.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! What changes have you noticed, and what do you think the future holds for pharmacy? Join the conversation and share your insights!

Regards,
Ella Shearing 

The Vape Debate

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Australia is currently embroiled in a heated discourse over the proposed de-scheduling of vapes from Schedule 4 (prescription-only medicines) to Schedule 3 (pharmacist-only medicines). This legislative change, set to take effect from October 2024, raises significant concerns among healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists who fear it will undermine professional standards and overburden them without compensation.

 

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) claims that “dispensing therapeutic vapes from 1 October 2024, when they are classified as Schedule 3 substances,” is intended to make smoking cessation aids more accessible. However, many pharmacists believe this move is problematic. According to the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, “We are not tobacconists or garbologists”. The Guild stresses that pharmacies are not equipped to handle the surge of customers seeking vapes, potentially attracting a demographic that may not align with the professional ethos of healthcare settings​. 

 

Moreover, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has expressed concerns that this shift places an undue burden on pharmacists, who are already stretched thin with increasing responsibilities. The PSA notes, “Pharmacists are frontline healthcare providers, and expecting them to manage vape supply adds to their workload without additional support or remuneration.” This move could compromise the quality of care that pharmacists are able to provide to other patients, as they juggle more tasks without any increase in resources.

 

There is also a significant ethical debate surrounding this decision. Many in the healthcare community feel that it goes against the professional standards upheld by practitioners. The PSA argues that “pharmacists are healthcare professionals, not gatekeepers for products that may cause harm”. This sentiment is heightened by the well-documented health risks associated with vaping, which include cancer, lung scarring, and nicotine addiction. These risks illustrate why many pharmacists are uncomfortable supplying products that may cause more harm than benefit to their patients. Furthermore, there is limited evidence to support the use of vaping products for smoking cessation and nicotine dependence, as highlighted by a report from the Australian National University ( ‘Nicotine e-cigarettes for smoking cessation: Evidence to support guideline development by Australian National University’).

 

The opposition to this policy isn’t limited to pharmacists alone. Major pharmacy chains have also expressed reservations. An article from ABC News reported that “several big pharmacy brands have outright rejected the idea of stocking vapes,” citing concerns over the message it sends to the community and the potential for pharmacies to become inadvertently associated with promoting vaping.

 

While the intention behind de-scheduling vapes to S3 may be to improve access to smoking cessation tools, the reality is far more complex. The potential fallout on pharmacists, the ethical considerations, and the possible public health implications make this a contentious issue. As the debate continues, it is crucial for policymakers to consider these factors and engage with the healthcare community to find a solution that balances accessibility with professional standards and public health priorities. As pharmacists, it is crucial for us to stand our ground and express concerns on behalf of our profession and community.

 

For more information, visit the TGA, Pharmacy Guild of Australia, and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.

 

Regards,
Ella Shearing 

Chair or No Chair? That Is the Question.

Posted on | by Bayleigh S

Should Pharmacists Be Entitled to Seating at Work?

The age-old question in pharmacy—how to avoid sore feet—often makes us envious of the checkout staff in Aldi. Should pharmacists also have the right to a chair at work?

 

The Locumate team recently posted a short-form video on LinkedIn, playfully highlighting the various standing positions pharmacists adopt behind the dispensary counter. This video unexpectedly sparked significant online discourse about the working conditions of pharmacists.

 

One commenter noted, “While this video humorously depicts the creative ways pharmacists try to rest their feet, it highlights a significant issue in our profession. Standing for extended periods, often 8+ hours, can take a toll on our health.” Another added, “I understand the nature of the job requires movement, but we need to take care of ourselves and rest when needed. Several [pregnant] pharmacist mothers have mentioned they must stand through 8-10 hour shifts with no place to sit.” Another comment joked, “Being able to sit at work was one of the main reasons I switched to hospital pharmacy!”

 

Indeed, standing for prolonged periods of time poses a health risk. SafeWork Australia states, “Prolonged standing can increase the risk of fatigue and illness. Workers should not stay in a seated, standing, or static posture for long periods.” Risks of prolonged standing include lower back pain, cardiovascular complications, and varicose veins, with these risks amplified during pregnancy.

 

Conversely, sitting for long periods also carries risks, including musculoskeletal disorders, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, poor mental health, and some cancers, according to SafeWork Australia.

 

To achieve a balance, employees should alternate between sitting and standing. One commenter from the LinkedIn post remarked, “This is an OHS issue, and an employer cannot prevent an employee from sitting if needed. A reasonable request for seating should not be refused.” While pharmacy work often involves standing and moving around, some tasks, such as administrative work, checking prescriptions or DAAs, can be done while seated.

 

Requesting a chair may feel uncomfortable due to current pharmacy workplace culture, but, as one commenter pointed out, “Everyone in pharmacy has a right to a physically safe working environment, and we need to address and change this.” It’s a cultural shift that requires collective effort to normalize safe working conditions for pharmacists.

 

“It’s important to remember that as we care for our patients, we also need to take care of ourselves. No healthcare role should demand that professionals work without adequate rest and comfort,” another commenter concluded. Pharmacy owners should be accountable for their staff’s comfort and safety, initiating conversations around improving working conditions. Pharmacists and staff should support one another’s needs to avoid unsafe working conditions.

 

“Providing seating options and encouraging regular breaks are essential for the well-being of healthcare workers, which ultimately benefits patient care. It’s a conversation worth having to promote a healthier work environment for all.” In terms of moving forward we hope this article opens up a bigger conversation around working conditions for all pharmacists in all stages of their career, in the hopes of fostering a better working culture.

 

“The next video should feature a pharmacist eating lunch without a lunch break!” And yes, thank you for the video inspiration!

Regards,
Ella Shearing 
 

Pay Next Day: Simplified Payments for Pharmacies 

Posted on | by Bayleigh S
What is Pay Next Day (PND)? 

 Imagine the peace of mind that comes from knowing your staff will be paid right after their shift ends, without any delays or hassles. That’s the promise of the “Pay Next Day” (PND) feature – a transformative approach to handling payroll that can significantly enhance your pharmacy’s operational efficiency and staff satisfaction. 

For pharmacy owners and managers, PND is more than just a quick payment tool; it’s a strategic advantage. This system ensures that your locums are compensated within 24 hours after their work has been verified and approved. This swift payment process not only boosts morale among your staff but also positions your pharmacy as a preferred employer—a critical factor in industries facing staffing challenges. 

From a managerial perspective, PND streamlines the administrative burden associated with payroll processing. It reduces the workload on your finance team and minimises the potential for payment errors, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. With PND, you can maintain a more focused approach on patient care and store management, knowing that the backend payment processes are taken care of efficiently. 

Why did we introduce PND? 
  • To simplify payment processes for busy pharmacies. 
  • Attract top locum talent with quicker turnaround of payment. 
  • Reduce administrative burden for invoicing and payments. 
  • Improve overall experience for both pharmacies and locums. 

 

How does it work? 
  • Review and approve locum timesheets as usual (within 48 hours, after which time it will be auto approved).  
  • Locumate processes payments to locums within 24 hours of approval of timesheet.  
  • Receive consolidated invoices from Locumate every Tuesday.  
  • Make a single payment to a central bank account instead of multiple payments to individual locums.  
  • Superannuation payments still go directly to locum’s superannuation fund. 

Pay Next Day is more than just a payment feature – it’s a revolution in pharmacy management. By streamlining your payment process, you’re free to focus on what really matters: providing excellent healthcare to your community. 

 

As we continue to innovate and improve our operational practices, PND stands out as a key feature that supports our vision of a supportive and efficient workplace. We encourage other pharmacies to consider this approach, as it fosters a positive work environment and positions your business as a leader in employee satisfaction and operational excellence. Consider PND as more than just a payment system; it’s an investment in your people and your pharmacy’s future. 

Kind regards,  
The Locumate Team