Pharmacy Connect 2024 is just around the corner, promising to be an unmissable event for pharmacists, owners, executives, students, interns, and industry representatives. Held at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 5-7 September, this annual gathering offers a unique opportunity to stay ahead of industry and clinical trends, gain business insights, and network with peers.
One of the standout workshops this year is titled “Harm Minimisation” and is set to be one of many conference highlights, offering in-depth discussions on some of the most pressing issues facing the pharmacy industry today.
This workshop, scheduled from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Thursday, 5 September, will take place at Wharf Room 4 in the Hyatt Regency Sydney.
A key session from this workshop, “Vaping – Are Australians Going Up in Smoke?” will be led by Colin Mendelsohn, Founding Chairman of the Australian Tobacco Harm Reduction Association.
As vaping continues to be a hot-button issue in Australia, this session will explore research and strategies in tobacco harm reduction, the regulatory environment, and the role of pharmacists in guiding patients through this evolving landscape. Colin Mendelsohn, a leading expert in the field, will provide his perspective and his advice to pharmacy professionals.
According to Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, pharmacies should be researching the then documenting their approach to vaping, with the 1 October changes imminent.
“From 1 October 2024, people 18 years or over will be able to purchase nicotine vapes directly from a pharmacy without a prescription,” Mr Sclavos said. “This is a complex issue from insurance implications, safety risks, dealing with non ARTG products, stock management, and clinical issues relating to smoking cessation, just to name a few.”
Following the critical discussion on vaping, the workshop will dive deep into several other key topics, providing a comprehensive view of the current landscape.
Emerging Trends in Australia’s Unregulated Drug Market
Speaker: David Jacka, Addiction Medicine Specialist, Monash Health
In this session, David Jacka will also explore the rising trends in the use of unregulated substances such as GHB, Ketamine, Nitrous Oxide, and Methamphetamine. As these substances become more prevalent, it’s crucial for pharmacists to stay informed about their effects, risks, and the challenges they present in a clinical setting.
Cannabis – From Hero to Villain?
Speaker: Dr Hester Wilson, Chief Addiction Specialist, NSW Health
As cannabis use continues to be a topic of debate in both the public and healthcare sectors, Dr Hester Wilson will examine its transition from a recreational substance to one with potential risks and dependencies. This session will provide a balanced view of cannabis, helping pharmacists navigate its role in patient care.
Synthetic Opioids – Are We Prepared?
Speaker: Dr Marianne Jauncey, Medical Director, Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre
Dr Marianne Jauncey will address the growing concern over synthetic opioids, which have become a significant challenge in many parts of the world. With Australia potentially on the brink of a similar crisis, this session will delve into the preparedness of the healthcare system and the role of pharmacists in mitigating risks associated with these potent drugs.
Debate: Should All Alcohol Consumed in Australia Require a Doctor’s Prescription?
The workshop will conclude with a thought-provoking debate on whether all alcohol consumed in Australia should require a doctor’s prescription. This year’s debate topic, sure to stir discussion, is titled: “All alcohol consumed in Australia should require a doctor’s script.” The debate will feature six prominent speakers who will present their cases with sharp arguments and engaging presentations, challenging attendees to consider the implications of such a policy, sparking lively discussion and reflection on the role of alcohol in public health.
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