The dispute about Pharmacy in CCLHD was back before the Industrial Relations Commission for further conciliation.

At the conciliation management agreed to automatically upgrade Pharmacy Assistants to Pharmacy Technicians upon successful completion of the Certificate III in Hospital and Community Pharmacy.

The Commission indicated concern around the ability of pharmacists to maintain appropriate professional standards and obligations as clearly outlined by the SHPA, Pharmacy Board of Australia and AHPRA.

Management confirmed that pharmacists (including dispensary pharmacists) will always have the ability to follow the dispensing process which includes reviewing the medication history and other relevant patient information, to ensure that the medicine is safe and proper for the patient to use.

These standards and guidelines can be found at:

• Pharmacy Board of Australia - Codes, Guidelines and Policies
• Standards of Practice for Clinical Pharmacy Services - The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (shpa.org.au)
• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency - Shared Code of conduct (ahpra.gov.au)

The Industrial Relations Commission has recommended that the restructure be trialled for a six-month period with a further report back on 13 June 2023.

The HSU has set up an email account [E-Mail not displayed] for members to report difficulties being experienced with the trial.

For any further information contact Gwenny Asimus on 0448 856 024.