Tell us about your PATY experience?
My experience has been truly wonderful thus far and I am so honoured to be a part of the PATY journey. At times it has been a bit overwhelming but it has pushed me out of my comfort zone. Winning the State title for NSW was not only a win for myself but for my whole team at the pharmacy who have been behind me every step of the way.
What was the workshop day like?
Going into the workshop I was a bit apprehensive as I did not know what to expect. Walking away from the day I felt inspired to bring back the experiences and knowledge I have gained from the other finalists and workshop leaders. The workshop was really well put together; it was a fun and interactive way to work with and learn from other like-minded people who share a passion for pharmacy as I do.
Would you encourage others to participate in PATY in the future? Why?
I absolutely would encourage other pharmacy assistants to take part in this great experience as there is much to gain from participating. The award brings much deserved recognition to pharmacy assistants and the many skills involved in this profession. Pharmacy is an essential service to the community and well trained, knowledgeable PA’s who are the backbone of the industry deserve to be celebrated. It was a lovely shock to be nominated by my team.
How did you get started in pharmacy?
I started in community pharmacy part-time at age 16 as my first ever job while still at school. I then took on a traineeship which solidified my love of pharmacy and the great role it plays in the community. From there I spent some time working in both community pharmacy and hospital pharmacy. Hospital pharmacy was a great learning experience as it operates so differently from a community based pharmacy. Both of these fields have been rewarding and satisfying in building relationships with my customers and assisting them with their health care solutions. My various experiences are the driving force behind my continued respect for pharmacy, as there is always so much to learn.
You’ve been in pharmacy for a while, how has your interest evolved over that time?
Over the past 5 years I have expanded my knowledge and interest towards aged care and the role that pharmacy plays in this. Medication management in aged care is a collaborative approach between doctors, nurses and the pharmacy to ensure the best medication outcomes for the patient. Working in this role has greatly improved my knowledge of medications, their varied uses, appropriate dosage and contraindications. I am now able to pick up on and provide clinical intervention in many different situations. Although much of the interaction is not face to face with the customer, the gratification I gain in knowing I have provided them with the best service I can is all that I need. While this customer service varies from having that contact with the customer on the shop floor, the service and level of care in which I have to provide is still paramount. I feel like I have the best of both worlds as while my main role is currently servicing our aged care facilities, I also still spend one day a week in our dispensary and on the shop floor building a rapport with our valued customers.
You’ve worked in so many areas, do you have a favourite?
The role of a pharmacy assistant is so diverse and there are many various aspects which I enjoy. My boss would call me an all-rounder and I love that I am able to jump into so many different areas and help wherever is needed. Be it on the shop floor, the dispensary, placing an order, managing our nursing home department or opening and closing the shop, I am a versatile member of our pharmacy team.
What qualifications have you gained and how important is training to you?
I have my Cert II in Community pharmacy, S2 and S3 training and I am always involved at training nights. Much of my experience and knowledge has been gained from the various settings I’ve worked, the various roles I’ve held and from the other experienced staff members who I’ve worked alongside. I think the hands on learning approach is really valuable and one of the ways I personally learn the best. Training in pharmacy is really vital as things are constantly changing and new knowledge is always emerging so it’s important to stay on top of the game. I also enjoy training new staff members and passing on knowledge that I have gained through my time in pharmacy.
Can you share a favourite story from your time in pharmacy?
We have many lovely customers but one my most memorable encounters is with two of our regulars who dress up as Mr and Mrs Claus every Christmas. It brings a great atmosphere to the shop and local community and we can even get photos with Santa.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to enjoy the outdoors with my partner and my beloved boxer dog. Spending time with my friends and family is also equally important to me as is going to the gym which is great for my overall health and wellbeing.
What inspires you?
I work with a really incredible team at the pharmacy who all support one another and push each other to succeed and do better. As a cohesive unit they inspire me to bring the best I can to work every day and I really look up to our pharmacists and their wealth of knowledge.