PSA elects its 2020-21 pharmacy leaders

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National Board re-elected Associate Professor Chris Freeman as National President of the peak body for pharmacists.

The PSA National Board also re-appointed Board Director and Victorian Branch member Michelle Lynch and appointed PSA board director and ACT Branch president Renae Beardmore as Vice Presidents.

A/Prof Freeman, who was first appointed President in December 2018, said it was an honour to be re‑elected as National President and to be leading an experienced Executive Committee as PSA works to advocate on behalf of all Australian Pharmacists.

“I have been so proud of the way pharmacists have adapted, innovated and cared for their patients and communities during the recent bushfires and COVID-9 pandemic, and it is a privilege to be able to continue in this role.” he said.

“While there are challenges facing the profession there are also some great opportunities and I am looking forward to helping our members grasp these opportunities to build their professional careers, while also improving the health of Australians.

“For the first time in 30 years PSA is a signatory in the Community Pharmacy Agreement, our advocacy and policy work will continue as we focus on extending support for the recommendations in our Pharmacists in 2023 action plan and medicine safety reports.

A/Prof Freeman also paid tribute to the elected Vice Presidents, Victorian pharmacist Michelle Lynch and Canberra pharmacist Renae Beardmore.

“I congratulate both Michelle and Renae on their appointments and I am thrilled to be working with two very talented pharmacists and health professionals.

“Michelle joined the PSA Board in 2014 and has extensive experience as a community and private hospital pharmacist and health care consultancy, specialising in medication management and pharmacy services, as well as being a previous President of the Victorian branch.

“Renae brings over 30 years of experience working in health from public health policy through to patient care as a community pharmacist.

“As President of the ACT Branch, Renae will be a big asset and bring plenty to the role as National Vice President and I am delighted to see her elected in this position.”