Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council

Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council (APAC) was a pivotal advisory body in Australia that played a significant role in the development, implementation, and monitoring of national policies and strategies related to pharmaceuticals and pharmacy practice. Its primary focus was to ensure that Australians had access to safe, effective, and affordable medication and pharmacy services, aligning with the broader goals of the Australian healthcare system.

History

The Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council was established to provide expert advice to the Australian Government and its agencies on a wide range of issues concerning pharmaceuticals. Over the years, APAC contributed significantly to the shaping of pharmacy policies and practices, including the Quality Use of Medicines (QUM) principles that are central to the National Medicines Policy. The council was disbanded, and its functions were absorbed by other bodies as part of a restructuring of advisory mechanisms within the Australian healthcare system.

Functions and Responsibilities

APAC's primary responsibilities included:

• Advising the government on pharmaceutical policy matters.
• Promoting the Quality Use of Medicines.
• Encouraging collaboration among stakeholders in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Identifying and addressing issues related to access to and the use of medicines in Australia.

The council worked closely with various stakeholders, including pharmacy professionals, the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare providers, and consumer groups, to ensure that its recommendations and policies reflected a broad consensus and were in the best interests of the Australian public.

Impact and Legacy

The legacy of the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council is evident in the ongoing commitment to the Quality Use of Medicines within the Australian healthcare system. The principles and policies developed with APAC's guidance have contributed to a framework that supports the safe, effective, and economical use of medicines in Australia. The council's work has also laid the groundwork for continued collaboration among stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

See Also

• Pharmacy in Australia
• National Medicines Policy
• Quality Use of Medicines