To assist pharmacists understand the issues and prepare their business for the impact of codeine re-scheduling in February 2018, this year’s Pharmacy Connect will feature multiple education sessions on this key topic.
According to Conference Convenor Kos Sclavos, Pharmacy Connect is the only industry conference helping pharmacists to address key management issues in time to implement a strategy before the 1 February change.
“We all know that 1 February is not an ideal time for change in pharmacy, with limited accessibility of pharmacy reps after Christmas trading and during their conference period. Due to the timing, I predict that this change will be even more difficult and complex to manage than anticipated.
“There are a number of changes that pharmacy will need to understand and digest prior to 1 February. As such, we have developed an education program to assist owners, managers, pharmacists and key staff in the lead up to this change. The presentations differ in approach to the issues and thus delegates can consider their own solution”, Kos said.
Four key issues of the codeine reschedule will be discussed across different sessions, sponsored by AFT Pharmaceuticals and Reckitt Benckiser, as follows:
- Advising and supporting patients up to 1 February 2018 – community pharmacy has an obligation to keep patients informed and to advise them that products which are readily accessible now, will become Prescription Only in February. Understand best practice systems and procedures to manage customer communication.
- Transition arrangements regarding stock and the move of products to Prescription Only medicines – while some manufactures have indicated a withdrawal from the market, others will run down stock levels. Managing store shelf space is key, and pharmacies need to consider stock holding issues and returns policy. In addition, learn how you can address the needs of the patient during this period to retain loyal customers before and after the 1 February change.
- The new strong pain category in pharmacy available post 1 February 2018 – as many consumers will request a solution that is pharmacy based, it is important that community pharmacy has the same shelf space allocation for the new strong pain pharmacy category, as per the current space allocation. Learn the systems and procedures to implement this renewed space, as well as to educate your customers about the pharmacy options available.
- Codeine combination products as Prescription Only medicines and their handling post 1 February 2018 – pack size changes, doctor education and pricing of Prescription Only medicines will be vital for pharmacists to understand post 1 February 2018.
Held from 1- 3 September at the Hilton Sydney, Pharmacy Connect will feature over 30 speakers, a trade exhibition with 60 plus exhibitors, Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. The Guild’s National Student Business Plan Competition will also be contested at the event, with the winner announced at the Gala Dinner.
A full conference program and online registration and accommodation bookings are available online at pharmacyconnect.com.au.