The 25 September marks World Pharmacists Day, and the theme for 2026, Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures, shines a light on the vital role this unique group of health professionals play in primary care, preventative health, health screening and the safe use of medicines.
The team here at Hepatitis ACT sees this role and its impact every day through the partnerships with dedicated pharmacists across the Territory from branches of the Capital Chemist, TerryWhite Chemmart, and Pharmacy Networks franchises.
Pharmacies and community healthcare go hand in hand, and these partnerships have helped us broaden hepatitis testing, education, and treatment by bringing these things to where people are already going to be. This has proven to be an important step on the way to hepatitis B and C elimination.
When pharmacists open their doors for our team, they are providing us with a safe space to offer free point-of-care testing. If someone were to show a hepatitis C positive result, we can help arrange their treatment through the pharmacy they are familiar with and access medication and support close to home.
When it comes to hepatitis B, our pharmacy partnerships are trusted places for us to refer clients for hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Having partnerships spread across the community means we have been able to vaccinate clients who may otherwise have missed out on this important preventative healthcare.
Accessing traditional health services can be difficult with various barriers coming between some people and their ability to attend appointments, get tested or complete a course of treatment. Here is where our pharmacy partners are playing an important role.
Providing testing and treatment in the same place people are already coming for their pharmacy needs enables us to meet people who otherwise may miss out on essential health screening and care. Together, we are aiming to make viral hepatitis care more accessible and easier to navigate.
Time and time again, we have seen pharmacists go above and beyond in supporting people accessing treatment. From preparing medication in ways that are easy for people to remember when it is due, to helping people stay on track with medications, and working with our team to support clients through their treatment journey, we see your work, and we appreciate you.
These partnerships are an important part of the work towards viral hepatitis elimination, and we believe, a testament to what can happen when community organisations and primary healthcare providers work together to bring healthcare closer to people.
A big thank you to all the pharmacists we work with and to pharmacists across our community for the care, support and commitment you provide every day.
Happy World Pharmacists Day from everyone at Hepatitis ACT.
If you are a pharmacist interest in learning more about partnering with Hepatitis ACT, send us an email at heplink@hepatitisact.org.au.