UTS PhD candidate Sarah Dineen-Griffin recently presented research at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s 2017 Annual Seminar in Perth, Western Australia [opens an external link].
Dineen-Griffin presented on the vitally important role local pharmacists play in managing consumer minor ailments and in ensuring the safe and appropriate use of over-the-counter medicines.
Community pharmacies in Australia receive 300 million patient visits annually for their healthcare needs. Pharmacists deliver advice to consumers to manage their minor ailments or refer them to their general practitioner when medical care is required.
International research has shown that minor ailment services make a difference to the health of communities. Dineen-Griffin's presentation explored the evidence, need and potential value for a structured Australian community pharmacy service to standardise routine pharmacy practice in the delivery of minor ailment management and consumer self-care.
Dineen-Griffin is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Pharmacy Practice research supported by Professor Charlie Benrimoj, Professor Kylie Williams and Dr Victoria Garcia Cardenas. Her ongoing research project focuses on co-designing, evaluating and implementing a community pharmacy service in this area.