The Pharmacists’ Support Service (PSS) has a new leader, following the retirement of the organisation’s longstanding President, John Coppock, who is being replaced by western Sydney-based community pharmacist Curtis Ruhnau. The changing of the guard marks a major evolution at PSS, which was strongly supported by Coppock since its very early days, initially in his former capacity as Chair of Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL), which provided seed funding to help establish the group. The Pharmacists’ Support Service was formed by the PSA Vic in 1995, and became an independent organisation in 2010, at which point Coppock took the helm and led the growth of PSS from a small state-based service to a national organisation which now has a strong contingent of volunteers who take calls from stressed pharmacists. “John’s leadership of PSS has been characterised by integrity, strong relationships within the pharmacy profession and an absolute commitment to the concept of pharmacy uniting to support all members of the profession,” according to a statement from PSS. Ruhnau (pictured) was elected as PSS President at the recent annual general meeting, which also saw Helen Dowling re-elected as Vice President and David North OAM continuing as Treasurer. “I became a pharmacist to help people, and PSS gives me the opportunity to help other pharmacists who in turn help other people,” Ruhnau said.

“It is really just an extension of the desire to help people, starting with pharmacists – my people.” Ruhnau has already been involved with the organisation for four years as a representative of PDL. The PSS encourages any pharmacist, pharmacy intern, student or international graduate in Australia who is feeling stressed to reach out for support. “We are available to provide a listening ear and support over the phone every day of the year from 8am to 11pm AEDT,” PSS said, with anonymous and confidential support from a pharmacist colleague always on offer by calling 1300 244 910. Several pharmacy organisations are providing guidance to PSS including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, PDL, APC, PSA, PPA, SHPA, AFSPA and NAPSA. Tax deductible donations to support PSS can be made by CLICKING HERE, while a host of resources and information are available online, HERE. BP