Indispensable Podcast

Yvette Anderson graduated from Charles Sturt University in 2005 and has progressed her pharmacist career with experience in community pharmacy, private hospital, aged care, consultancy, and public hospital practice. Yvette has qualifications in Mental Health First Aid, Asthma Management from Asthma Foundation of Victoria, Australian Association of Consultant Pharmacy, and is currently undertaking Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies with plans to move onto Masters of Autism in 2022.  Yvette's specialist area of interest is neurodevelopmental conditions and in 2020 launched The Spectrum Pharmacist. The Spectrum Pharmacist utilises Yvette's professional knowledge and experience combined with her personal experiences as a mum to two boys on the spectrum to provide information, education, personal tips and experiences to help you individuals and families on their spectrum journey. Episode 18 Neurodiversity | Navigating a diagnosis Yvette shares her personal experiences with helping people with neurodiversity and some tips on how to navigate a diagnosis to get the best outcomes for your loved ones. 5 Indispensable Tips Reach out to informed health professionals for accurate, up to date evidence-based advice. Be open and honest with them so they can provide optimal support and advice.  Form a plan with your support team that aligns to goals you want to focus on. Ensure that everyone is aligned to that plan and that it is regularly monitored and tweaked. Be mindfiul that you may need to try and sometimes re-try practices to find the best fit.  You are not alone, there are many fabulous support groups available, find your local group or look online. Again be careful of advice given As a parent you are the best advocate for your child / loved one and you will know when something doesn't feel right. Make sure you speak up so that your team are well informed of everyday reality and can appropriately support you If medication is recommended talk to your local pharmacist as they are the medication experts or contact The Spectrum Pharmacist. Links Neurodiverse Squad booking: https://pharmonline.coviu.com/app/book/appointment Contact Yvette Anderson See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kayla Lee is a practising community pharmacist and pharmacy owner at Capital Chemist Braidwood. After completing a Master of Pharmacy at the University of Canberra, Kayla went on to complete a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Practice which fuelled her passion for mental health service delivery within a community pharmacy – and spreading awareness about the role a pharmacist can have in someone's mental health journey. Kayla won the University of Technology  Sydney (UTS) Innovative Pharmacist of the Year award in 2017 for a pharmacist delivered mental health program she designed and implemented at Capital Chemist Wanniassa. Currently, Kayla is a pharmacist mentor on the PharMIbridge RCT, which aims to bridge the gap between mental and physical health.   Episode 17 Mental Health | How are you, really? Kayla shares her personal experiences with helping people with mental health and some tips on how to continually check in on others and yourself. 5 Indispensable Tips Find your support circle – whether that's friends, family, work colleagues, someone at the gym or local coffee shop, find them and build that trust. Talk about mental health – good and not so good. Talking about it breaks the stigma and normalises the conversation around managing good and not so good mental health. Be willing to give different treatments/therapies a go. You don't know if it will work for you unless you try it! It's ok not to be ok. However, if you're not ok, make sure you seek support and help to manage. Always put aside time for self care. Work out what activities/hobbies bring you enjoyment and always make time for them. Links BeyondBlue guide to treatment for depression - https://resources.beyondblue.org.au/prism/file?token=BL/0556 Contact Kayla Lee - kaylalee@capitalchemist.com.au Capital Chemist Braidwood - https://www.instagram.com/capitalchemistbraidwood/    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tahnee Simpson is a community compounding pharmacist and owner of Keperra Compounding Pharmacy in Brisbane. Tahnee became a menopause pharmacist because she wanted to help women understand where they are at in their life stage, what's happening with their hormones, and how it relates to how they are feeling. With many options available for treatment, wading through this on your own is overwhelming, and Tahnee helps to recommend the treatment that fits your needs. Episode 16 Menopause | A back-firing car A lack of the female hormone oestrogen contributes to bone loss, increased cardiovascular risks, reduced skin elasticity and lower libido. In this episode, Tahnee discusses the symptoms of menopause (described as a back-firing car!) and the options available, including MHT (menopause hormone therapy), to manage this hormone deficit.  5 Indispensable tips Knowledge is power – understanding where you are at in your life stage and what your hormones are doing goes a long way to understanding your symptoms. Get rid of the stigma that women just need to “get through it” and stop complaining. We need to talk about this more - with our friends, with our mums, with our colleagues. Share our experiences, support one another, and get support from loved ones around us. Get a mid-life health check – things can deteriorate post-menopause. Getting a health check and some base line information such as a mammogram, cervical screening, bone density scan, heart health check can give us a comparison point down the track. Don't suffer with the symptoms – there are treatments in the form of menopause hormonal treatment (for women in whom it is safe to take). Menopause hormonal therapy (also known as HRT) is safe for most women to use in the first 10 years post menopause. Be kind to yourself – things are changing. Acknowledge that. The more you understand what's happening to you, the more you know you aren't going crazy! Links Jean Hailes - For women's health website: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause  Contact Tahnee here: Keperra Compounding Pharmacy website: https://compoundingpharmacy.com.au/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TerryWhiteChemmartDallasParade/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicolette Ellis is an Advanced Pharmacist Advisor for Queensland Health and senior clinical pharmacist for Beyond Pain, an interdisciplinary persistent pain videoconferencing program. A regular presenter and national trainer, she is passionate about improving access to multidisciplinary care for those living with persistent pain. She also runs 'The Rainbow Pharmacist', a content series featuring prominent influencers in pharmacy and exploring all the colours of the healthcare rainbow. Episode 15 Chronic Pain | Relief, Mobility and the 'A' team Nicolette shares her experience with helping people with persistent pain and reminds us to take power back from pain. It is important to recognise that there are a range of treatment options for chronic pain and you need an engaged team of health professionals to get the best results in your individual circumstances. Regularly review your personal goals and treatment and reach out for support whenever you need it. 5 Indispensable tips 1. When you have persistent pain, set goals for yourself and measure them. 2. Find support – whether that through family social, medical, community, online forums 3. The purpose of medication is to improve function, whether that's improving sleep, mood, function or ability to work 4. Take the power back from pain 5. Aim for the “A” team - everyone in you care should be supporting you, helping to improve you self management strategies and assist with working towards your goals Contact Nicolette here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therainbowpharmacist/ Links: To find pain programs/clinics - https://www.painaustralia.org.au/getting-help/pain-directory For online pain programs - https://www.painaustralia.org.au/getting-help/pain-programs/programs Beyond Pain - https://beyondpain.com.au/ Pain Calculator - https://pain-calculator.com/calculators/neuropathic-pain/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Allie Xu was born and raised in a fourth-generation medical family in Shanghai, China, and moved to Australia when she was 15 years old. She's a registered pharmacist and holistic health and life coach specializing in emotional intelligence and the mind-body connection. Allie is currently completing her master's of Chinese Medicine acupuncture. She is also the founder of the Global Pharmacy Entrepreneur Community and the host of Pharmacy Entrepreneur TV and podcast. Allie is passionate about showing pharmacists and the general public the connection between emotion, mind and body. Allie uses Eastern and Western Medicine philosophies and coaching methods to assist her clients to identify their emotional blocks and barriers to increase emotional intelligence. Indispensable Episode 14 Allie shares her (recently award-winning!) Period Pride campaign, discussing the options available including moon/menstrual cups, period underwear and the difference in use of tampons between countries. If you own a uterus or know someone who has one, this ep is for you! 5 Indispensable tips Record your cycle know when you are going to have your period, be prepared and also monitor your bleeding days and colour and quantity, size of clots each month. Use Apps to record your cycle. Self-care time - Regular exercise such as walking, jogging, aerobics can help to soothe menstrual cramps. Adjust your emotions and mood. Do deep breathing to relax or activities to reduce stress and frustration. Have sufficient rest. Do not overwork.  Avoid consumption of icy drinks, cold and raw food such as ice-cream, sashimi, especially prior and during your period. Try warm tea instead such as a) Rose or Jasmine Tea: Suitable for those who experience stress, frustration and bloating in the lower abdomen prior to the period. b) Ginger Tea: Suitable for those who feel cold especially during the period and those who felt better after applying a warm patch over the lower abdomen. Be careful not to catch a cold, especially during your period. Keep yourself warm, especially your lower abdomen and legs, wear socks and avoid walking around bare feet.  Massage – Gentle massage can help to reduce period pain. Apply heat packs or warm hands on your lower abdomen then apply circular movements    You can connect with Allie here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/allie-xu-b0486b89/ FB - https://www.facebook.com/allie.xu Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/allie_xu/  Pharmacy Entrepreneur TV - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUD4q4OiEJv67rWEqBs02Pw Pharmacy Entrepreneur Podcast  https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/pharmacy-entrepreneur-podcast/id1509751407 https://open.spotify.com/show/5NuCQkEpJyRmAEQtFfK2BP  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Keitaanpaa is a NT born, raised and educated pharmacist currently working in community pharmacy and undertaking his PhD in access to smoking cessation medicines and is the Chair of the Health Providers Alliance Northern Territory as well as the Vice President of the SA/NT Branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. Sam is a strong advocate for harm minimsation approaches and has delivered education to patients and health professionals around Codeine rescheduling, Medicinal Cannabis, Opioid Pharmacotherapy and supply programs, Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs and Culturally Safe practice. Sam has also sought to improve the access to medicines by Territorians living rough and those in residential rehabilitation and is currently working on a community naloxone awareness program. Episode 13 Illicit | Substances in use In this episode, Sam discusses illicit drugs that are being used in Australia right now, the potential harms from abusing prescriptions medications, the options available in pharmacy to deal with drug reliance (including naloxone) and where to get help when needed. 5 Indispensable Tips Harm minimisation means exactly that, it's not abstinence, it's doing something in the least risky way Know what is available, even if you don't think you want to use it yet; its easier to access later if you want Build relationships with services you are/might use for harm minimisation. Getting you know your GP/Pharmacist can make it a lot easier to engage later on things you feel less comfortable with If you don't feel you are being supported, say so. We are health professionals and if there is some personality clash, we won't take it personally Small steps. Whether you are occasionally taking drugs or it's an issue you want to tackle, just trying each time to do it a little safer, planning beforehand or replacing high risk activities with lower risk ones will eventually all add up. Links Alcohol and Drug Foundation: https://adf.org.au/ Australian Government Department of Health: https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/drugs/about-drugs/how-to-reduce-or-quit-drugs Alcohol and Other Drug hotline: 1800 250 015 Get in contact with Sam: Twitter: @SKeitaanpaa   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 12 Abortion | Medical Termination of pregnancy In this episode, the Indispensable Pharmacist provides information about medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) and what to expect. MTOP is a safe and effective procedure to end pregnancy (widely used in Australia since 2013 and for decades overseas).   5 Indispensable tips Ensure you are well informed of your options and what is involved in the medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) You need to take the medication for MTOP in the correct order and at the correct time to ensure it has the best chance of working The side effects of MTOP are bleeding, cramps and feeling sick so use heat packs, pain relief such as ibuprofen and anti-nausea medication along with rest during the process You need to have a follow up appointment with your treating doctor 2-3 weeks after taking MTOP to confirm termination You need support during this time so talk to trusted friends/family and your health professionals   Links Family Planning Alliance Australia: https://www.familyplanningallianceaustralia.org.au/services/ Children by Choice: https://www.childrenbychoice.org.au/ MTOP change of mind: Debbie Garratt dgarratt@realchoices.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this short bonus episode, you find out more about the Indispensable Pharmacist and how PharmOnline came to be. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nhan Do is a pharmacist from Perth, WA. He was born in Vietnam, completed high school in Singapore and his pharmacy degree in Perth. He was a very active student during university as the president of the West Australian Pharmacy Student Association (WAPSA) and board member on the National Pharmacy Student Association (NAPSA).  Nhan is very passionate about educating patients on general health information and hosts a podcast called Breaking The Capsule with his pharmacist friend Ishaan. He is very passionate about sleep apnoea as it is one of the most under-diagnosed conditions. Episode 11 Sleep apnoea | Cutting through the noise In this episode, Nhan discusses Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) machines, complications and treatments for sleep apnoea. 5 Indispensable tips There are many people have sleep apnoea and do not know about it but need to be diagnosed and managed Sleep apnoea can lead to many complications if left untreated STOP-BANG and EPWORTH are popular questionnaire to assess sleep apnoea. You can take these questionnaires to get an idea if you need to see a health professional here: https://www.sleepapnea.org/assets/files/pdf/ESS%20PDF%201990-97.pdf https://www.sleepmedicine.com/files/files/StopBang_Questionnaire.pdf CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the gold standard treatment for sleep apnoea patients A sleep study can be done at home too where you may be more comfortable Links Sleep Health Foundation: https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/obstructive-sleep-apnea.html Contact Nhan here: LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/nhan-do-69197874 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Health---Wellness-Website/Breaking-the-Capsule-110257606996674/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Fei Sim is a Senior Lecturer and the Coordinator of International Engagement in the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences at Curtin University, Western Australia. Fei holds a Doctoral degree in Pharmacy, is a practising pharmacist, a community pharmacy owner, a pharmacist immuniser and an Accredited Mental Health First Aid Instructor. Fei has served as the WA State President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia since 2017. Fei serves on a number of profession and academic-related committees, and is fully committed to the pharmacy profession and is passionate about the future of the profession through growth of professional services to attain the highest level of contemporary pharmacist practice. Through her teaching and research activities as an academic, Fei is committed to motivating and inspiring students to become excellent and competent future pharmacists, and encouraging them to have the courage and aspiration to be future leaders in the primary healthcare team. Fei has led and is involved in a number of research projects and trials aiming to provide evidence to support the great contribution of pharmacists, including in the area of immunisation, mental health, minor ailments management and diabetes. Her teaching awards, the 2018 PSA WA Early Career Pharmacist Award and the 2019 PSA Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Award are testimony to her commitment to patient care, learning and teaching, leadership in pharmacy, innovation and initiative in pharmacy service delivery, as well as peer and professional engagement. Episode 10 Vaccination | Whooping Cough In this episode, Fei discusses the pertussis (dTpa) vaccine and its benefits for at-risk individuals, including pregnant women and young children. 5 Indispensable tips Make sure you are vaccinated Encourage others to get vaccinated. Ask each other Get up to date and current information. Speak to your pharmacist If you experience any side effects from the vaccine, speak to your pharmacist If you have whooping cough, you can help stop the disease spreading by staying away from childcare, school, work or other places where you could spread the infection. Cover you mouth and nose when you sneeze/cough and practise hand hygiene (wash your hands thoroughly and often!). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marlene Lim is a passionate pharmacist and health educator with professional interests in mental health, and children and women's health and wellbeing. Registered both in Malaysia and Australia, she is a pharmacy proprietor in Malaysia and also a Mental Health First Aid Instructor.  With over ten years experience in pharmacy health services delivery in both metro and rural area and over fifteen years experience in providing motivational and personal grooming consultancy and event production, Marlene has been exposed to individuals with mental health issues from different sectors. Marlene is especially interested in raising awareness around mental health and wellbeing among parents, the elderly, teenagers and small business owners and empowering participants to be MHFA first responders for their family members, friends, colleagues and community.  During the Covid crisis, she volunteers her time through founding the Facebook group Covid Care Community Malaysia Group and moderating the Australian's inspired Adopt A Healthcare Worker Malaysia Group which helps to improve mental health of the community and spread positivity. Marlene is a mother of two and loves spending time cooking, traveling, watching movies and recently added gardening into her list of hobbies. Episode 9 Mental Health | Perinatal considerations Marlene discusses mental health from conception until 1 year after birth; the perinatal period. She offers ways to manage perinatal mental health and how to talk to a new mum about how she is coping. 5 Indispensable tips 1. If you suspect anyone may have a suicidal thoughts or are showing suicidal behaviour, ask directly and intervene. Don't assume or guess. Take it seriously. 2. Early intervention leads to faster recovery. Nip it in the bud by asking, listening, supporting and encouraging a person positively 3. Listen and allow silences. This could potentially create a change because the person feels they are being listened to 4. Don't judge - that's the least you can do to help and support anyone. 5. Take care of yourself. You can't take care of another person if you're not well. Remember self-care! Links Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) - https://www.panda.org.au/ Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) - https://www.cope.org.au/ Gidget Foundation - https://gidgetfoundation.org.au/ Parent Infant Research Institute (PIRI) - https://www.piri.org.au/ Black Dog Institute - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/ Contact Marlene here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heymisspotato LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlenelim/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anna discusses the National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccinations for children from birth to 4 years of age. Each vaccination is discussed, including side effects that can be expected and ways to manage your child to reduce their discomfort. 5 Indispensable tips Keep an updated record of when your children's vaccinations are due. Consider installing the Save the Date to Vaccinate app on your smartphone. The Australian Immunisation Handbook app provides further information about the NIP and the vaccines that are required at each age Take along items to distract your child during the vaccinations: a noisy toy, healthy food or drink and ensure you can move your child around straight after. Check out reliable websites for videos explaining vaccination including the SKAI and the NCIRS Use a cuddle or straddle hold during vaccinations to reassure your child and build trust between your child and health professionals Links Save the Date to Vaccinate app Australian Immunisation Handbook app Sharing Knowledge about Immunisation (SKAI) http://www.talkingaboutimmunisation.org.au/ National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance http://www.ncirs.org.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Janna Linke is a 35-year old mother of two who, whilst registered as a Pharmacist, and having worked in both Hospital and Community pharmacy roles, isn't currently employed in the Pharmacy sector. This is due to ongoing chronic health conditions. Janna was diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) at the age of 33 years, a rare connective tissue disorder. Janna established the health advocacy brand, Zebra Blends at beginning of 2020, as it became evident to her, in her search for answers to her own health issues, that rare diseases and similarly chronic illnesses are very commonly under researched, under funded, and in turn under diagnosed. Janna hopes to change this via providing patient advocacy services to people experiencing rare disease and chronic illness. It's hoped via the increases in exposure and awareness of these conditions, the path to diagnosis and treatment will become much  smoother and quicker Indispensable Episode 8 Invisible Disease | Making Connections In this episode, Janna discusses HyperMobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or hEDS, chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome and some of the medications used to help with the symptoms. The path to diagnosis for these 'invisible diseases' can be long and frustrating. Janna offers some ways to advocate for yourself and also opportunities to connect with others that may be managing these conditions. "If you can't connect the issues, think connective tissue". 5 Indispensable tips Engage a general practitioner who is willing and able to learn about your condition if it is not one they are already familiar with. Having a good working relationship with your general practitioner is integral to ensuring appropriate and timely referral to specialists is achieved, thus obtaining accurate diagnosis which in turn leads to more timely and effective treatments being explored and utilised. Have a good working relationship with your local pharmacist. They are able and very willing to assist in advocacy but also in ensuring your medication usage is optimised at all times. If you have a rare chronic illness, join support groups. These can be tremendous for building a support network of people who know exactly what it is like to be living with the condition you are. But also, most importantly a lot of the time there will be people who are more ‘experienced' with the condition, disease or syndrome and able to guide you in your journey. There are no silly questions - never be afraid to ask for further explanation, information or evidence from your healthcare providers. Collaboration is the KEY. Collaboration with healthcare practitioners, both medical and allied health, carers, support workers and fellow patients.Your multidisciplinary team of practitioners if you have a chronic or rare condition will be big. Make sure everyone is informed and remains in the loop, about any key changes to medications or treatment. This will make transitions of any kind easier for all involved.   You can connect with Janna here: Instagram: @zebrablends FB: Zebra Blends Web: www.zebrablends.com.au Email: janna@zebrablends.com.au   Additional Links: Rare Voices Australia (RVA) https://www.rarevoices.org.au/ The Ehlers-Danlos Society https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/ Emerge Australia https://www.emerge.org.au/ Unrest - Documentary Film available to watch on Netflix https://www.unrest.film/ Pain Australia https://www.painaustralia.org.au/ Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) https://www.customcompounding.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Low-Dose-Naltrexone-Medicine-Information.pdf https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3962576/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Allie Xu was born and raised in a fourth-generation medical family in Shanghai, China, and moved to Australia when she was 15 years old. She's a registered pharmacist and holistic health and life coach specializing in emotional intelligence and the mind-body connection. Allie is currently completing her master's of Chinese Medicine acupuncture. She is also the founder of the Global Pharmacy Entrepreneur Community and the host of Pharmacy Entrepreneur TV and podcast. Allie is passionate about showing pharmacists and the general public the connection between emotion, mind and body. Allie uses Eastern and Western Medicine philosophies and coaching methods to assist her clients to identify their emotional blocks and barriers to increase emotional intelligence. Episode 7 Emotional Intelligence | Know yourself for your health  In this episode, Allie discusses the impact of emotional intelligence (EI) on your health and well-being. Allie discusses concepts from Eastern and Western Medicine to reduce our stress levels and improve our performance. 5 Indispensable tips Breath deeply and intentionally Daily Emotional release exercise Start and keep an emotion diary  Self-love and self-care time is important Find a coach    You can connect with Allie here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/allie-xu-b0486b89/ FB - https://www.facebook.com/allie.xu Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/allie_xu/  Pharmacy Entrepreneur TV - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUD4q4OiEJv67rWEqBs02Pw Pharmacy Entrepreneur Podcast  https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/pharmacy-entrepreneur-podcast/id1509751407 https://open.spotify.com/show/5NuCQkEpJyRmAEQtFfK2BP    Evidence for meditation increasing emotional intelligence: https://positivepsychology.com/mindfulness-emotional-intelligence/ https://s3.amazonaws.com/academia.edu.documents/56282906/International_Journal_of_Indian_Psy.pdf?response-content-disposition=inline%3B%20filename%3DEffect_of_Prayer_Along_With_Meditation_V.pdf&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=ASIATUSBJ6BALKXEYAMW%2F20200530%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20200530T000000Z&X-Amz-Expires=3600&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEKD%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2FwEaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJHMEUCIHbRTXYRK9gjsQGwizIrQIZkLpzNPJGMZ5B3jAH9MqfMAiEAkah4r6EBg0Oh%2BtU5vo377VpoeOHCVuqVMBVOBny2BEoqvQMI%2BP%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2F%2FARAAGgwyNTAzMTg4MTEyMDAiDB9szasiQ18jXRDCPyqRA8FjoRpKJ7CwXRHv899%2BBbIo1Bux5MIUNtD3RokqF1F7Ew1es6OPU8Fu1PwcGEFMwtlpJCMg%2Bo9SaaKAN4DE5DKFSjCjZxQiWqebskaWmad%2BkGGP4CwgQaGIQ6Cmlc2d3L%2Bc%2FTO%2FW5vgpoKhnETj69og5cZFpm%2FcFOH4qYLFciOdcmjEMQohHVBj60DhFs%2BNwkH9pmYSchwr8D%2FzXlEypHpsG6Uc7U3B4%2FLbETnsDT3xNOkBupmcQHqWsuqmYwDpxQQzjOzqUBwaCzWaAp3IJb7MpR1pX4TJK0kDdGXtisUC5XX8cjC2X%2FxdXPYXdsuPdu%2Fefi26G%2BhlpCP3jwkiKFO3RGmnZmLjPemndATYKdKQZwYmyZNfZxvZyTO451iGMF%2B77G8Xm3hYJoRalM9bvYnnCUHYFE7%2Br2dBva%2FpjZyo0Q54j5y3eosDUbXrS4yYaGkCW%2FJ37ql9RrribnukJiMSFIWb0jrLHaFg%2Fgx9T2ynt3BcsuhC8xBa%2FPkOQqgwQJlpRWuSV17n0K3WvPgZ0BOoMIquxvYFOusBlJlK5I9mOC3v8XApbGO94Uof6QCP2ewl3crolZm%2BJfOtcqavExjt%2FkKVVaw50T9iKrndj%2B4%2BaR%2BEiawxErxXjo97w472bNQfgE3lUuwEEDTSOvfBvGlsHX%2BqiwzE6kAjuXuCGnFIRJsEhADGLgHkHcHLJkCGvPRwXtQDmqKTbdPuv2MbI5gFc%2B85efIHEAQiUHcKsfqBSslb9H1H2CGo0ZNomJjBGZboT1hvtl3j%2BeAzn4huB6yhloSY0nCk91oPKePkVojqeO50Lcwtb%2FwEtRZPFAHZ7484cKBpyb97UsgVrJ4OJGswLUvDmA%3D%3D&X-Amz-Signature=4821158798f7d5e0cd78156efcb9c3e628dde65a0d40ee6ea0cd41910e8a286f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anna is the Indispensable pharmacist. Anna graduated from Charles Sturt University (Orange Campus) in 2008 with a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons). She has over a decade of experience as a clinical pharmacist in the hospital, aged care and community settings with a particular interest in rural practice. Anna has been working as a pharmacy practice academic at the University of New England (UNE) since 2012 and is accredited to undertake Home Medication Reviews (HMRs) through the Australian Association of Consultant Pharmacists (AACP). She is able to deliver Mental Health First Aid and immunisations to her patients. Anna has recently completed a Master of Clinical Pharmacy through the University of Queensland (UQ) with the aim of improving her practice to enhance the experience and knowledge of her patients. Anna has commenced a PhD at UQ on the topic of medication rationalisation and deprescribing (stopping unnecessary medicines). Episode 1 Contraception options | The Pros and Cons Anna discusses the common contraceptives in Australia and some emerging options for both men and women. LARCs (Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives), oral and vaginal ring contraceptives are featured along with emergency contraception and options for transgender men and breastfeeding women. 5 Indispensable tips There are many options available for contraception but all have pros and cons. You and your prescriber need to agree on one that will minimise risks and provide adequate contraceptive cover There are new options becoming available all the time for women (and possibly men) so even if you have been using one type of contraceptive for a long time, it is worthwhile considering other options if your circumstances change and as you age Side effects from most contraceptives mimic early pregnancy. These generally subside after a few months. No contraceptive option is 100%. A pregnancy test or blood test may be required to know for sure. Emergency contraception (incorrectly termed the ‘Morning After Pill') is generally safe and effective and can be used up to 5 days after sex. There are few reasons not to use it if you are concerned about falling pregnant. Ask your pharmacist! You can connect with Anna here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndispensiblePh/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/IndispensablePh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-barwick-817b2a52/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indispensibleph/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melanie Frodsham completed her Bachelor of Pharmacy at Monash University's Victorian College of Pharmacy in 2009. She is a community pharmacist based in Western Melbourne with an interest in breastfeeding. After having her first baby she completed a Cert IV Breastfeeding Education through the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) as she realised, first hand, how important it was for breastfeeding mums to receive accurate breastfeeding information and good quality support. As well as her community pharmacy work Melanie volunteers as a breastfeeding counsellor, providing phone and face-to-face breastfeeding support. She helps to facilitate breastfeeding education classes for expectant parents, runs local support groups for breastfeeding mums and supports mothers through breastpump hire.  Episode 5 Breastfeeding | What medications are safe? Unfortunately, there are still many reports of mothers being given incorrect information and advice around using medications while breastfeeding.  Many mothers face challenges in breastfeeding their babies and receiving incorrect information or poor advice surrounding medication use can needlessly undermine a breastfeeding relationship. Breastfeeding mothers frequently need to use medicines. Medication use may be for something directly related to breastfeeding or early motherhood. For example, for managing pain following the birth of their baby, treating infective mastitis or for post-natal depression and/or anxiety. Medication use may also be for other common conditions that come up in life; a common cold, hayfever, heartburn or headaches. The truth is that most medications are safe to use while breastfeeding. Some may be preferred over others and there are a few that are good to avoid. There is almost always a safe option. Breastfeeding mums shouldn't feel like they need to ‘suffer in silence' and leave a medical condition untreated. Nor should they feel like they are required to stop breastfeeding in order to get the medical treatment they need (this is only the case for a small number of women with serious medical conditions). Women deserve to receive accurate information around medicines use and good quality support to enable them to meet their breastfeeding goals wherever possible. 5 Indispensable tips 1. Most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding. It is good to seek advice to find out which might be the best option for you. 2. Information on medicine boxes or on the leaflets that come inside boxes may not be the most up-to-date – use a reliable information source such as LactMed or speak to an expert on medicines in breastfeeding by calling one of the medicines information lines (see web links supplied) 3. If you are given strange advice about medicines and breastfeeding – eg ‘pump and dump' for 72 hours – seek a second opinion! 4. Medicines can sometimes be helpful for increasing breastmilk supply, HOWEVER, other techniques, for example, more frequent feeding and getting good support to make sure baby is attaching well to the breast, are often MORE effective. 5. Spending money on expensive vitamin or herbal supplements is not necessary for breastfeeding   Further resources and links Breastfeeding Helpline (for general breastfeeding enquiries and support): 1800 686 268 Medicines in breastfeeding fact sheet for over the counter medicines. Produced by the Royal Women's Hospital Melbourne: https://thewomens.r.worldssl.net/images/uploads/fact-sheets/Medicines-in-breastfeeding-151018.pdf LactMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/ Medicines information centres phone numbers for expert advice about medicines use during breastfeeding (list compiled by the Australian Breastfeeding Association): https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/safe-when-breastfeeding/breastfeeding-and-prescription-medications Some further information and resources for other topics briefly touched on during this episode: Information and support for parents experiencing post-natal depression and/or anxiety: https://www.panda.org.au/ Increasing milk supply: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/common-concerns%E2%80%93mum/supply Domperidone for increasing breast milk. Produced by the Royal Women's Hospital Melbourne: https://thewomens.r.worldssl.net/images/uploads/fact-sheets/Domperidone-for-increasing-breast-milk-supply-260219.pdf Weaning: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/weaning-and-introducing-solids/weaning Lactation suppression: https://shop.breastfeeding.asn.au/products/lactation-suppression/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vivien Hsu is an accredited pharmacist and Credentialed Diabetes Educator who completed a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in Western Australia. Since then she has studied psychology, Chinese Medicine, diabetes education, weight management, and nutrition coaching. For over 20 years she has worked in universities, hospitals and community pharmacies. She currently collaborates with over 300 doctors, including general practitioners, endocrinologists, obstetricians and other medical specialists in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. In 2019 Viv was the recipient of the PSA's most prestigious pharmacy award in Queensland, the Bowl of Hygeia for her work as a credentialled diabetes educator pharmacist on the Gold Coast. Vivien specialises in diabetes and weight management with holistic approaches and her mission is to help people feel well physically and psychologically. Episode 3 Gestational Diabetes | Even Olympians get it! Viv discusses the causes and risk factors for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), ways to manage it and services available to provide support to women who experience it. 5 Indispensable tips 1. Understand the health issues you have and how best to manage them 2. Be kind to yourself with self-care and compassion (stop beating yourself up) 3. Your body is the best doctor (listen to your body and tell your treating team so they can help you) 4. Enjoy your food (Food is to be enjoyed, not feared. Choose healthier food and find the balance) 5. Move your body (increase your physical activity and exercise) Contact Viv by: Facebook: VIP Diabetes Twitter:@vipdiabetes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vipdiabetes/ Instagram: vipdiabetes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debbie Rigby is an Advanced Practice Pharmacist with postgraduate qualifications in clinical pharmacy, geriatrics and respiratory medicine. Debbie is a Director of NPS MedicineWise, past National Vice-President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and a member of Lung Foundation Australia COPD Advisory Committee. She currently works with a general practice, conducts Home Medicine Reviews and provides medicines education to pharmacists, nurses, GPs and other health professionals through her company Pharmeducation. Episode 2 Medication Review | Are they worth it? Debbie discusses what is involved in a medication review, what the benefits are and how to organise one for you or a family member. Debbie provides some personal insight into her experience of conducting thousands of medication reviews in people's homes. Debbie says the NPS MedicineWise www.nps.org.au is a useful website and the Medicines Line 1300 MEDICINE & AME Line is available to all Australians to call 1300 134 237. https://www.nps.org.au/adverse-medicine-events-line 5 Indispensable tips Home Medicine Reviews help you to get the best out of your medicines, in the privacy of your home Opportunity to ask that question you have always wanted to know about your medicines Provide you with an up-to-date medicines list Worried about mixing up or forgetting to take your medicines? Pharmacists can help make it less complex Pharmacists can now follow-up on the initial consultation to see how any changes to medicines are affecting you Find Debbie on: Twitter: @Drugby56 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pharmeducationAUS/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/debbierigby Website: www.pharmeducation.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brad Butt is a passionate community pharmacist with a strong clinical background who takes pride in supporting the health of his patients and the wider community. Brad's special interest areas include Men's urological health and the management of blood cancers. Brad is the managing partner of Cooleman Court Pharmacy in the ACT and the Founder of Mens Health Downunder; the pharmacist led initiative which assists men with their urological health all Australia wide. Episode 4 - Men's Health | The P word Brad discusses common conditions men experience including Erectile Dysfunction (ED),  Prostate Cancer and Peyronie's Disease. At 9:46, Brad meant to say the incidence of Erectile Dysfunction is approximately 1,000,000 men at any one time in Australia, rather than 1,000. Brad provides us with an overview of each condition, what symptoms to look out for and treatment options that are available. Brad also recommends going to Mens Health Downunder www.menshealthdownunder.com.au, https://www.prostate.org.au/ and https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/erectile-dysfunction for more information and support. 5 Indispensable tips:  Never be afraid to ask the obvious question - its never obvious and rarely straight forward You get what you give - always be as open and honest as possible with your healthcare team. Remember by sharing your experience/symptoms its helps us build our repertoire so we can in tern better help others  Find a pharmacist or pharmacy team that make you feel welcomed, valued and safe - this way, even if ever you're not sure about something you can feel confident that your trusted pharmacy/pharmacist will always be there to help you and this is vital  A medicine becomes a poison very quickly when used inappropriately - please don't share your medicines with others or change your dose without seeking the advice of a doctor (even if it does seem like a good idea) Erectile health, more broadly urological health, is often a large part of a mans identity; if something doesn't seem right get it checked out in a timely fashion. Rest assured, if something is wrong the outcomes are far better managed if early Find Mens Health Downunder and Brad Butt online: Facebook @menshealthdownunder  Instagram @mens_health_downunder  Twitter @DownUnderMens  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mens-health-downunder/ YouTube - Mens Health Downunder Website - www.menshealthdownunder.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.