Fourth year Bachelor of Pharmacy with Applied Honours student Haylee Shaw (pictured, centre) recently took out the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Viatris Pharmacy Student of the Year award (PSOTY).
Haylee competed against seven other pharmacy students from across Australia, showcasing their counselling skills during a mock clinical scenario.
Haylee’s scenario involved a 68 year old female patient with degenerative osteoarthritis which was poorly controlled with the use of paracetamol.
“This patient had a complex medical history including ischemic heart disease, diabetes and hypertension,” Haylee said.
“The patient was using several prescribed medications which left us with little room for error when exploring pain management options for the patient.”
Haylee’s skills and ability in managing the clinical scenario stood out for the judging panel.
“Listening to the other students apply their clinical knowledge to the case with such confidence and eloquence was very impressive so I was incredibly shocked when my name was announced, but extremely happy that all the hard work paid off,” she said.
Haylee said the win was made possible through the support and encouragement of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology’s staff.
“I have loved my time studying at UTAS,” she said. “The pharmacy tutors and lecturers I have had the privilege of learning from have all been so supportive and engaging.
“I strongly believe you are a product of your surroundings and being surrounded by professionals who are passionate about the field makes the hard work that much more motivating and makes achievements like these feel extra special knowing I have made Tassie team proud!”
Professor Glenn Jacobson, Head of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, congratulated Haylee on her success on the national stage.
“Haylee’s passion and dedication to the profession of pharmacy is illustrated with the national accolade,” he said.
“Our teaching team are dedicated and experienced professionals, who provide the utmost in supporting our students to excel.”
PSA national president Dr Fei Sim congratulated Haylee on her award, which are a highlight of PSA’s annual flagship conference.
“This competition provides students the opportunity to demonstrate important skills such as gaining patient insights and patient understanding, active listening and skills that support positive patient outcomes,” Dr Sim said.
“PSA is dedicated to making pharmacy an attractive career path for young people and celebrating success regardless of where you are in your career.
“Each of the students who participated in the PSOTY competition has demonstrated impressive professionalism, skills and dedication. PSA wishes them the best in what I am sure will be successful careers as pharmacists.”