James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

PC2208 - Pharmaceutical Public Health and Primary Healthcare for Pharmacists

Subject Description

This subject will introduce students to the principles and practice of pharmaceutical public health, and the integral role played by pharmacists in Australian primary health care. It will also teach the process of counter-prescribing and explore the role of pharmacists in the provision of over-the-counter (S2 and S3) medications in the management of self-limiting health conditions that present to community pharmacy. The subject will have a strong focus on pharmacist led primary care interventions and the role of the pharmacist in the provision of pharmaceutical public health. This subject will also explore foundational principles of public health, the structure of the Australian health care system, factors which impact upon the health status of the population and comparisons of the health status of Australia with other nations will be covered. A key aspect of this subject will be the comparison of the health of rural, remote and metropolitan localities and indigenous health and how health service delivery varies by geographical location. Different primary health care models will be presented, with a strong focus on those that can be implemented by pharmacists.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify fundamental aspects of the Australian healthcare system and international frameworks and apply this knowledge to the provision of health care by pharmacists
• Compare the health of different populations and cultures including that of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within Australia and analyse primary care and public health initiatives which address health related disparities between communities
• Describe and compare the demographic, epidemiological and sociological characteristics of the Australian population and apply that knowledge to identify and/or plan primary care pharmacy services to a range of communities and cultural groups
• Perform safe, competent, and professional clinical services in the management of common self-limiting conditions in the Australian Community Pharmacy context
• Discuss existing and future pharmacist scope of practice where it relates to addressing primary care needs of Australian communities

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (30%) - Individual
• Oncourse - (40%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Attendance at residential from 2022

Availabilities