Ep 72 Helping Professional Pharmacists Deliver Professional Services

In this episode of Pharmacy View Podcast’s Pharmacy Career, Resource & Training stream, host Kavita Nadan, Pharmacist and Founder at Locumate, talks to her mentor, Michael Gray, Manager of Prime Pharmacy Group. In addition to being an experienced director and manager with a demonstrated history of working in the retail Pharmacy industry, Michael also holds a law degree. Listen to the episode as Michael talks about the changing trends in the Australian Pharmaceutical Industry, independent contractors and their superannuation, the shift in pharmacy ownership, and their drive to help budding entrepreneurs. Having learned the value of a strong work ethic from their parents at an early age, Michael started work at 15—sold photographic equipment, had a short career as a photographer at a local newspaper, traveled overseas, went to Pharmacy College at 25, interned at a children’s hospital, answered an ad for a job—the rest as they say, is history. The job ad led Michael to their current business partners, with whom they founded Advantage Pharmacy, which is now a part of the Platform Alliance Group. When asked about their support network, Michael talks about their mother, family, and existing business partners, Steve and John. A strong support network at home and work has been pivotal for their growth. Furthering the conversation, Kavita and Michael delve into the shifts in the Pharmacy Industry. Michael talks about the following: i. Rise of the Discounters ii. The decline in wanting to take Pharmacy Ownership because of perceived barriers iii. Push for more flexible hours for Pharmacists iv. Shift from supply-based model to professional services v. More Pharmacies are joining groups to get better support in running their business vi. Rise of the digital age Even though Michael doesn’t practice law, they hold a law degree and are interested in labor law. In that context, they reference the following during the conversation: i. Hollis Vs Vabu https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hollis_v_Vabu ii. CFMMEU v Personnel Contracti