Bulletin

Issue: June 2004

News

First regionally-trained pharmacists graduate at Bendigo

Victoria's first regionally trained Bachelor of Pharmacy students have graduated from La Trobe University, Bendigo. Six of the 18 graduates were awarded Honours degrees.

The new four-year Bachelor of Pharmacy degree, with its a strong emphasis on rural health issues, has been developed to help overcome a serious shortage of pharmacists in rural and remote areas.

Professor of Pharmacy, Kenn Raymond, said the graduates had been keenly sought after by pharmacies across Victoria and were now undertaking their professional pre-registration year in the workforce. Fourteen were working in regional and rural pharmacies and four were training at Melbourne hospitals and community pharmacies.

Most students, Professor Raymond added, were recruited from the country in anticipation that many would take up careers in regional areas.

'Given the number now undertaking placements in rural pharmacies, there is every indication that these graduates have a commitment to regional and rural pharmacy,' he said.

back to top

back contents next