Serving a community with unique challenges such as fluctuating economic cycles, housing shortages and a large fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workforce, Pharmacy Help Karratha has become a trusted healthcare provider. The pharmacy has developed strong community connections and offers innovative services. One of the standout initiatives is the pharmacy’s “Little Scientists” holiday program, which engages local children in hands-on activities that introduce them to chemistry. “The program has sparked curiosity in kids and families alike,” says Ben.
Pharmacy Help Karratha’s Health Focus Calendar educates the community on key health topics such as Heart Health and Asthma Management. “By aligning with government health initiatives, we raise awareness on important health issues both inside and outside the pharmacy,” says Ben. They launched their sleep Apnoea Clinic in 2007, becoming the only pharmacy within a 250km radius offering sleep apnoea diagnostics. “Through telehealth consultations, we provide local care for patients who would otherwise have to travel to Perth,” Laura shares.
The pharmacy is also dedicated to supporting the Indigenous community. Through sponsoring Aboriginal community events and providing culturally competent care, Pharmacy Help Karratha plays an important role in bridging healthcare gaps. They collaborate with the Mawarnkarra Health Service to improve healthcare access in the Roebourne area. “Our pharmacists have completed specialised cultural training to provide services like Medication Management Reviews, helping close the health gap for Indigenous Australians,” Ben adds.
Pharmacy Help Karratha’s Rural Student Placement Program seeks to attract pharmacists to the region. Partnering with universities and the WA Centre for Rural Health, the program has helped recruit top-tier talent. “Attracting students from across the country to our remote area has been a key component of our long-term recruitment strategy,” Laura says. “We’ve also built workforce housing to tackle rising rental costs, ensuring we retain our staff and continue providing high-quality care.”
Pharmacy Help Karratha is a great example of how rural pharmacies can lead in healthcare innovation, community engagement, and patient care. “We’ve built a pharmacy that actively improves the health and wellbeing of everyone who walks through our doors,” says Laura.
Michelle Bou-Samra, Award Judge, commented, "The Guild Pharmacy of the Year Awards shine a light on outstanding pharmacies like Pharmacy Help Karratha. Despite its remote location, this pharmacy continues to build and engage an exceptional team that fosters deep community connections, ensuring the delivery of innovative healthcare services and positive health outcomes."
Nick Panayiaris, Senior National Vice-President of the Pharmacy Guild and Award Judge, added
“Pharmacy Help Karratha stands out as a leader in rural healthcare, providing essential services and making a real difference to its community’s wellbeing.”
The Guild Pharmacy of the Year Awards celebrate excellence in community pharmacy and recognise pharmacies that make a real difference in the healthcare landscape. The winner of the Guild Pharmacy of the Year award, along with the winners of other category awards, will be revealed on 20 March 2025 at the Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference, held at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre. The four category awards that recognise the outstanding contributions made by pharmacies in various areas are:
- Excellence in Business Management Award – Sponsored by Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API)
- Excellence in Community Engagement Award – Sponsored by Teva
- Excellence in Professional Innovation Award – Sponsored by CSL Seqirus
- Excellence in Harm Minimisation Award – Sponsored by Camurus, Indivior, and StrongRoom AI
For more information visit the Guild Pharmacy of the Year Awards website.