Page 6 - Retail Pharmacy March 2021

4 EDITOR’S LETTER EDITOR’S LETTER We had hoped that 2021 would be different, but, unfortunately, with recent Covid outbreaks and more border closures, we are again reminded that the pandemic is far from over and that we have to keep adapting to new infection hot spots and different strains. In morning news at the time of writing this, Victorians were on day four of a five-day lockdown: NSW had experienced nearly 30 days with no community transmission, and the rest of the nation also seemed to have no transmissions as Brisbane and WA managed to control their most recent outbreaks. We sincerely hope that by the time this publication comes out, Victoria’s lockdown is over, and the rest of the country continues to enjoy an absence of outbreaks. Australia is well on track to commence its vaccine rollout, with more than 142,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine arriving on our shores. Health Minister Greg Hunt reassured Australians on Valentine’s Day that the vaccines were scheduled to land in Australia by the end of that week, and they did – not a bouquet of roses, but a fine gift of relief and hope. The vaccines now will need to be to be evaluated by the TGA for damage assessment and quality control. At the time of writing this, the rollout is still a work in progress, with the federal government coordinating outreach to aged-care homes while all states and territories are prioritising phase 1A vaccinations to include healthcare and border-facing workers, such as those engaged in meeting international arrivals, etc. Mr Hunt also said the government was hopeful that the TGA’s approval for the AstraZeneca vaccine would be given over the course of the next week as this process was travelling slightly ahead of schedule. More than likely it will be granted provisional approval instead of an emergency one. By the time this publication is out, hopefully the rollout is well underway and we are all on the road to recovery: in health and economy. Meanwhile, we stay safe and do the best we can. Recently, my team and I took an opportunity to seize a moment when the Queensland border opened to NSW. For those who don’t know, Retail Media’s head office is in Brisbane, as are some of our colleagues, so a few of us from Sydney made our way to Brissy for some team bonding. I didn’t realise how much I needed that dose of brainstorming face to face until we were there. I met teammates whom I work with very closely but have never met in person. It makes a difference, a huge one. I also saw colleagues I haven’t seen in ages. It was a treat. Was it the best time to travel there? Probably not, as I was on deadline for this issue. In the past, I would have been the first to object to the timing, but times have changed, as have people: you grab an opportunity and just make it work. ‘Team bonding’ had a different meaning in the past. It is now no longer just something an HR department advises. Previously, most of us may have regarded a trip like this as a necessity and would have gone along because we felt we had to, simply taking it for granted – I am guilty of this charge. Not now, however. It was probably what it was meant to be all along, a chance to get to know each other on a more personal level, exchange ideas and collaborate. So, plan your next team-bonding experience – whatever is suitable to you. It makes a big difference and is like having a massive helping of renewed energy and good vibes, which will have a ripple effect on your customers: something we all need. I am not going to highlight any articles in this issue because I really feel you should read them all. From our pharmacy groups article, where we have continued the conversation on where to from now for community pharmacy, including the vaccination rollout and technology capabilities, to our CPD article focusing on aged care. This issue is packed with valuable information that I very much hope you find useful. Managing Editor RETAIL PHARMACY • MAR 2021