What to watch for: 2025 community pharmacy trends
Staying ahead of industry trends is vital for community pharmacists and other pharmacy professionals. In 2025, several key developments are set to shape the future of community pharmacy in Australia. Understanding these trends will help pharmacists enhance their practice and continue meeting their communities’ evolving needs.
Here’s a look at the top community pharmacy trends that will be hot topics at APP2025:
Advancements in pharmacist scope of practice
Community pharmacists are taking on more clinical roles, driven by initiatives contained in the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) and funded Commonwealth programs outside the 8CPA.
Allowing pharmacists to work to their full scope of practice not only enhances patient care but also positions pharmacists as integral members of the primary health care team. To learn more, be sure to check out the APP2025 conference program for plenty of scope of practice related sessions!
Digital health and artificial intelligence
Digital health is transforming community pharmacy. Technologies like eScripts and telehealth improve convenience and medication compliance, while AI supports tasks like medication management and patient engagement. Dispensing robots are continuing to make an impact – be sure to experience one in action at the Trade Exhibition!
Don’t miss Thursday’s session on ‘Digital Health: The next 5 years for pharmacy’ where experts will discuss Australia’s $1.1 billion investment in digital health infrastructure.
60-day dispensing
Changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) allow 60-day dispensing (60DD) of certain medications. While this improves convenience for patients, it also presents financial challenges and opportunities for pharmacies. Delegates can gain insights into the implications of 60DD (and the 8CPA) at ‘Pharmacy market insights and a financial update in the light of 60DD and 8CPA: A deep dive into the economics and business perspectives of pharmacy professional services’ on Saturday 22 March, led by Frank Sirianni of Medici Capital.
Focus on preventive care services
Preventive health care is a growing focus for community pharmacies, with services like vaccinations and health screenings becoming staples.
Explore how pharmacies can strengthen their role in primary care at Thursday’s session, ‘How community pharmacy can strengthen their primary care role through precision health’, led by Jeff Harrell, President of NCPA (USA).
Consumer spending and behaviour
Recent reports show a stable spend in pharmacies, with a notable increase in in-store shopping. Understanding consumer behaviour is essential for pharmacies looking to tailor their services and improve customer satisfaction.
During ‘Unlocking the potential of pharmacy: Insights from the grocery business’ on Thursday 20 March, delivered by grocery retail experts from Kenvue, you can explore strategies that have contributed to grocery channel growth and discuss how to utilise for community pharmacy.
Join us at the LARGEST pharmacy conference and Trade Exhibition in the southern hemisphere!
As community pharmacy continues to evolve, staying informed about these key trends is essential for pharmacists. By embracing these changes, pharmacists can enhance their practice, improve patient care, and ensure they remain at the forefront of the health care industry.
Don’t miss your chance to learn more about these community pharmacy industry trends (and more!) at APP2025 from 20-22 March 2025 on the Gold Coast! Book now and Unlock Your Opportunities!
