FORBES Pharmacist Jack Buckley has been named the Pharmacist of the Year at the Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA) annual Pharmacy Excellence Awards.
The part owner of Flannery’s Pharmacy and Life Pharmacy in Forbes received the accolade for his dedication to rural healthcare.
A trained pilot, Jack's innovative approach to healthcare delivery was first recognised during the NSW flood crisis in November 2022, when he utilised his flying skills to transport medical supplies and pharmacy staff to towns along the Lachlan River.
Jack and his Life Pharmacy Group (LPG) colleagues have since been working alongside the Western New South Wales Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) to coordinate and deliver the Australian Government's COVID-19 Vulnerable Vaccination Program to aged care residents across rural and remote locations such a Bourke and Cobar.
By combining his professional expertise as a pharmacist, with his passion for flying, Jack has revolutionised the delivery of essential medical services to remote communities.
“This award was certainly a nice, albeit unexpected, surprise,” Jack Buckley, Pharmacist and part owner of Flannery’s Pharmacy and Life Pharmacy in Forbes said.
“We know the greatest challenge facing patients in rural and regional Australia is access - they simply don’t have the same access to health expertise, resources, and treatments that their city counterparts do.
"If we can do our bit to help bridge that gap, then we’re doing our job well.
“I think the key message is, don’t underestimate what community pharmacy can offer patients, particularly in regional centres.
"We are very service based and place a huge emphasis on patient management and, the great thing is, we’re making a difference to the community.”
The award is one of Australia’s most prestigious and highlight regarded pharmacy accolades, with LPG CEO, Michael Flannery, congratulated Jack on his achievement.
“This award is a credit to Jack and all the work he puts into the Forbes stores and his local community. He has been a wonderful addition to LPG since joining us over 12 years ago,” LPG CEO, Michel Flannery, said.
“Jack has embraced the Forbes community, is popular with his patients, and is an excellent Pharmacist.
"The impact he has made in recent years, particularly utilising his love of flying, highlights his dedication and commitment to
community health.”
The IPA Summit provided an opportunity for those within the network to connect and discuss key priorities, such as delivering the right mix of services to achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes for the community.