After more than a decade of advocacy on behalf of the CSO wholesalers, Pattie Beerens is moving on from her role as Executive Director of the National Pharmaceutical Services Association (NPSA).
Pattie led the establishment of the Community Service Obligation (CSO) and has been instrumental in working with all stakeholders in the pharmacy sector and within government over three Community Pharmacy Agreements (CPA) from the 4th to the 6th CPA. At the conclusion of the 6th CPA negotiations, Pattie advised the NPSA Board that she wanted to pursue other opportunities and would not be renewing her contract.
“I feel enormously proud of what we have been able to achieve over the journey,” she said.
“We have effectively campaigned for a stronger, safer and more secure supply chain while always putting the patient first and helping Government meet its National Medicines Policy objectives.
“With the Pharmacy Review about to commence, now is the most appropriate time for me to move. I’d like to thank the Board and the CSO wholesalers for their support over the years – it’s been a lot of fun.”
NPSA President Mark Hooper praised Pattie’s passion for the industry and her collaborative approach to building on its strengths. “We are extremely grateful to Pattie for her contribution to the sector, both in terms of the impact she has made as well as the foundation she has built for the NPSA,” he said.
“Our agenda remains the same going forward. We will continue to work with Government to ensure that all Australians get timely access to the medicines they need via a viable, vibrant and efficient supply chain.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Australian Pharmaceutical Industries back as a member of the NPSA. Their involvement will enable the full-line pharmaceutical wholesalers to work as one to provide robust and constructive feedback into the Pharmacy Review and into Government policy more generally.”
Mr Hooper also announced that Donna Staunton and The Strategic Counsel will take over the leadership of the NPSA in the New Year, transitioning into the role with the assistance of Pattie Beerens over January.
For further information: Phil Martin, Michels Warren on 0418 817 876 pmartin@micwar.com.au