Lochie pictured at the USYD presentation receiving his award.
Parkes Pharmacist Lochie Pettiford has been recognised for his dedication to mentoring pharmacy students in rural and regional areas.
The managing partner of Parkes Pharmacy has been awarded the inaugural Rural Pharmacy Preceptor Award by the School of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney.
Lochie was nominated for his outstanding clinical placement support and supervision. In 2024, university preceptors supported more than 1,200 students to complete 1,789 clinical placements.
“It was very surprising to be recognised but it’s great to know the students who came here to Parkes, enjoyed their time,” Managing partner and Pharmacist in Charge of Parkes Pharmacy, Lochie Pettiford said.
Fellow Life Pharmacy Group (LPG) Pharmacists Chris Young (Canberra) and Josh Lee (Armidale) were also finalists along with Rob Smith (Canberra) from Men’s Health Downunder.
The University of Sydney Pharmacy School launched the student nominated Pharmacy Preceptor Awards this year, allowing students from across all degree programs to nominate pharmacy preceptors who’ve made an impact on their clinical learning or development as a future health professional.
Preceptor awards were presented in five categories including community pharmacy preceptor, hospital pharmacy preceptor, rural/regional pharmacy preceptor and the Dean’s Choice Award.
“These awards help students understand who offers good pharmacy placements and hopefully that encourages others to come out to the Central West and experience life here,” Lochie Pettiford said.
“To have four pharmacists in LPG nominated shows we provide a good placement experience, no matter where you are. This really highlights just how hands-on the experience can be for students in regional areas. We engage with our patients well, we put them first and we show that through our values, missions and goals.”
Third year Bachelor of Pharmacy student, Sonja, completed her placement in Parkes and said she left the placement feeling as though the country was home.