The Mastering Digital Media for Pharma workshop, set to be held in Sydney on 24 April, is designed especially for national pharmaceutical marketers, looking to navigate digital media with confidence and compliance.

The in-person session will explore the current Australian digital health care landscape, before showing participants how to shape impactful, pharma-focused digital media strategies. It will also deep dive into the key digital channels and their role in the patient journey offering critical insights into data privacy and measurement in a post-cookie world.

Digital media is a sought-after source of health care information for Australians. A 2024 study in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health found that 89% of Australian parents had used search engines to find health information about their child, while 43% of parents of children with chronic illness had accessed social media for information.*

Prophesy Digital Founder and Digital Media Strategist Mehrak Saheb says: “Digital media has become one of the most critical channels for reaching health care audiences, and the pressure is on for pharmaceutical marketers to master the space.

“We know digital is a prime channel for reaching consumers, whether it’s those in immediate need of solutions or support, those looking to share their experiences or people seeking connection.

“There’s also been much talk across the industry about the growing role of social media in the patient journey and its influence on how people navigate their health care journey. We’ve seen a rise in people following health-related influencers on social media platforms, engaging in discussions online, and observing others’ health journeys, particularly for long-term or ongoing conditions.

“With this workshop, we’re hoping to explore the Australian digital health care sector’s current state of play and unpick the role that each channel plays when it comes to interacting with consumers.

“Our goal is to give marketers the confidence to create platform-based, consumer-led strategies that build trust, engage audiences and ultimately, achieve better brand outcomes.”

The digital media workshop will be held in Sydney at Three International Towers, Barangaroo on Thursday, 24 April from 9:30am – 5pm, and places are limited to six attendees.

To register, visit prophesydigital.com.au/workshop.

Prophesy Digital is a boutique, digital media strategy consultancy, dedicated to bridging the gap between brands and consumers in the digital world.

*Source: Patterns of Parental Online Health Information-Seeking Behaviour, 2024 Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health.

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It has also extended its partnership with Arna Pharma, with effect from 1 February 2025.

Under the terms of the amendment, BTC Pharma has assigned Singapore and Malaysia distribution rights to the products to Arna Pharma. Arna Pharma will pay BTC Pharma a single-digit royalty on sales in these markets for the first three years and has granted BTC Pharma an indefinite license to the products for the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Arna Pharma says it’s building a pipeline of novel pharmaceutical products. It has granted BTC Pharma the first right of refusal to commercialise its specialty products in the Australian and NZ markets.

Commenting on the partnership, BTC Health Executive Chairman Dr Richard Treagus says: “This expanded partnership agreement with Arna Pharma combines the established strengths of Arna Pharma’s product development and manufacturing capabilities and BTC Pharma’s distribution and marketing expertise. We are very excited by the potential of bringing novel pharmaceutical products to Australian patients.”

Arna Pharma Managing Director Hemant Gulhane adds: “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with BTC Pharma, extending our collaboration to new markets.

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to delivering innovative respiratory solutions to patients in Singapore and Malaysia.

“With an indefinite license for Bronchitol and Aridol, we are positioned for long-term success.

“Additionally, BTC Pharma’s first right of refusal for our new product pipeline underscores the trust in Arna Pharma’s innovation. We look forward to expanding access to high-quality treatments and achieving new milestones together.”

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“In 2025, Naturally Good is committed to featuring a diverse lineup that captures what’s new and next in natural products,” the organiser said. “Responding to retailer demand and visitor feedback seeking fresh, exciting options, this year’s exclusive selection aims to surpass expectations and ensure that Naturally Good continues to reign as the leading platform for sourcing the latest in natural offerings.”

The Naturally Good Awards recognise and celebrate the innovation and dedication behind natural brands.

“By submitting a nomination, you can position your business as a leader in the natural space.”

Entries close 21 February 11:59PM AEST. Enter now at naturallygood.com.au/whats-on/awards.

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Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) welcomes the Albanese Labor Government’s $573.3 million funding package to provide women with more choice, lower costs and better health care.

Announced on 9 February, the new package of measures incorporates key recommendations from AdPha, shaped by the expertise and insights of its members.

AdPha President Tom Simpson praised the government for listening to patients and health care stakeholders, including the valuable contributions of AdPha Women’s and Newborn Health Specialty Practice members, to take action on expanding care and access in women’s health.

“AdPha members welcome these long-awaited measures, which will help remove barriers that have prevented women from accessing affordable health care for too long,” Mr Simpson said.

“We have strongly advocated for a comprehensive approach to managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms – focusing on awareness, education, and access to affordable, evidence-based treatments.

“We are pleased to see many of our recommendations, put forward during the Senate Inquiry and through our submission, reflected in this new package of measures,” he said.

“A/Prof McGuire from our Women’s and Newborn Health Committee specifically mentioned in her evidence that it had been over 20 years since any new medicines for menopause had been listed on the PBS, and these new listings will ensure that menopause hormonal therapies remain both affordable and accessible,” Mr Simpson said.

“Currently, over 85% of women experiencing bothersome symptoms of menopause or perimenopause are not receiving evidence-based care, despite the availability of both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies. With treatment options declining in recent years, we hope these reforms will reverse that trend.

“It is also great to see new contraceptives listed on the PBS for the first time in over 30 years, reflecting and subsidising contemporary treatment options that are used by many Australian women,” he said.

“We thank the government for prioritising women’s health and recognising the invaluable role of pharmacists in advocating for and supporting women’s health care needs.

“As this expands to including the provision of contraceptives and anti-microbials for uncomplicated UTIs at PBS co-payment prices for concession card holders by pharmacists – in direct support of our first recommendation of our Federal Budget submission – we look forward to enhanced multidisciplinary collaboration between doctors and pharmacists as we achieve patient-centred care,” Mr Simpson said.

“As medicines experts across all stages of reproductive health – from pregnancy, labour, and lactation to menopause and beyond – pharmacists are well-positioned to support women through these changes. With these new measures, we can play an even greater role in ensuring women receive safe, appropriate, and efficient care.”

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“The reality is that around one in 10 West Australians will have a seizure at some point in their lives, so seizure first aid training should be on everyone’s radar,” says Ms Buitendag.

During the month, Epilepsy WA is appealing to the WA community to become seizure aware and gain seizure first aid training to ensure greater preparedness for responding safely and confidently during a seizure emergency.

Epilepsy WA is also campaigning to save lives by raising awareness of epilepsy-related deaths, including Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), the leading cause of mortality associated with epilepsy. Each year, over 30 West Australians lose their lives due to SUDEP and other epilepsy-related medical emergencies and accidents, such as drowning.

“The reality is that one in 25 West Australians will be diagnosed with epilepsy, and around 10% of the WA community will have a seizure in their lifetime, so it is for these reasons that we are working towards greater awareness in this area,” adds Ms Buitendag.

“There are simple steps that can be taken to reduce seizure-related injuries and also epilepsy-related deaths, and we would urge any West Australians who would like to up-skill themselves in these areas to learn more about the training opportunities and seizure alert devices available.

“Our focus is on trying to save lives and reduce seizure-related injuries which is why, this October, we are asking the community to take a moment to become seizure aware.”

Epilepsy WA upskills schools, childcare centres and aged care providers with seizure first aid training to enable staff to be able to respond in a seizure emergency. The organisation also offers a range of online guides, including how to reduce risk and seizure triggers, and information on current seizure alert devices.

Epilepsy WA supports many families who have lost loved ones from SUDEP and offers monthly epilepsy support groups and a helpline for anyone impacted by epilepsy.

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ZANTAC is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist over-the-counter (OTC) medicine for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms such as heartburn and acid indigestion.

In September 2019, the Therapeutic Goods Administration removed all medicines containing ranitidine from the Australian market over concerns about the level of nitrosamine impurities in ranitidine products, specifically N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).

To be included on the ARTG, the TGA evaluates all registered medicines for safety and efficacy. Aspen Pharmacare Australia, the sponsor of ZANTAC tablets, has worked with the TGA to demonstrate that ZANTAC is stable throughout its shelf life and that nitrosamines are controlled within internationally established acceptable intake limits applied to the maximum daily dose, ensuring all requirements are met for the inclusion of ZANTAC as a registered medicine on the ARTG.

“As one of Australia’s largest pharmaceutical companies, Aspen is committed to delivering products that healthcare professionals can confidently recommend to their patients and customers,” says Aspen Pharmacare Australia Head of Consumer OTC Alison Holland.

“Aspen is pleased that ZANTAC has been reinstated on the ARTG. We’ve worked closely with the TGA and feel that this is a positive development for healthcare professionals, as it provides more options for their patients seeking relief from heartburn and acid indigestion.”

ZANTAC 150mg tablets are indicated for effective 12-hour relief and ZANTAC Double Strength 300mg tablets for 24-hour relief from heartburn and acid indigestion due to gastro-oesophageal reflux.

ZANTAC 150mg and ZANTAC Double Strength 300mg tablets is available from major pharmacy and grocery outlets nationally, without a prescription.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

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“Dr Jammal’s dedication to quality and safety in health care, along with his expertise in health system policy and reform has made him an invaluable asset to the healthcare sector, and we are pleased to recognise his decades-long commitment to strengthening primary care in Australia,” says AHHA Board Chair the Hon Jillian Skinner.

A well-respected leader within the healthcare system, Dr Jammal has worked with both NSW Health and the Commonwealth Government testing and developing integrated care models.

Dr Jammal also holds several notable positions, including Co-Chair of the GP Advisory Group for the NSW Health Agency for Clinical Innovation, Member of the Medicare Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) and is a Board Member of the Western Sydney Local Health District and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Dr Jammal is also a principal General Practitioner at the Hills Family General Practice in Western Sydney, and until recently was on the Board of the Western Sydney PHN.

Dr Jammal has played a significant role in the development of Australia’s Primary Health Care 10-year Plan as co-chair of the Primary Care Reform Steering Group under the previous government. He was a member of the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce and continues as an independent advisor in the current government’s Strengthening Medicare reforms through the Implementation Oversight Committee.

“His work in primary care and in systems policy has been of great benefit not only to improving the health of the people he cares for in Practice, but also to the community and the Australian health system as a whole. He is a strong advocate for patient-centred care, and how we can best embrace the benefits of multidisciplinary team care, digital technology and funding model reforms.”

The Sidney Sax Medal was first awarded by the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association in 1986.

Since then, over thirty-five medals have been awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the development and improvement of the Australian healthcare system in the field of health services policy, organisation, delivery and research.

Dr Sax played a key role in the development of Medibank, the first universal national health insurance scheme; along with Professor John Deeble, namesake of the Australian Healthcare and Hospital Association’s research arm, the Deeble Institute for Health Policy Research.

The 2024 Sidney Sax Medal award presentation will take place on the 15 October at the National Museum of Australia, Canberra, at a lunch presentation during the John Deeble Lecture and Panel Discussions.

Tickets are available for the Sidney Sax Award Presentation Lunch and John Deeble Lecture at ahha.asn.au/2024-sidney-sax-medal-recipient-dr-walid-jammal.

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Expert registered counsellor Amanda Westphal, a third-generation PMDD sufferer, is calling for urgent action on this often-overlooked health crisis. With 25.5% of sufferers waiting over 20 years for a diagnosis and 77% experiencing suicidal ideation, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

“PMDD isn’t just severe PMS—it’s a mental health condition devastating lives every single month,” says Ms Westphal. “Women are losing jobs, relationships, and—most critically—their sense of self, because this disorder goes undiagnosed for far too long. It’s a health crisis that needs immediate attention.”

Without proper healthcare pathways, many women turn to social media groups for support, navigating the overwhelming symptoms of PMDD on their own. This highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, comprehensive training for healthcare providers, and better support systems for women affected by PMDD.

Ms Westphal’s personal experience with PMDD drives her mission to raise awareness and support women living through its relentless symptoms—extreme mood swings, debilitating fatigue, and intense irritability that can last up to two weeks every month.

“What’s truly alarming is how few people—including healthcare providers—understand the gravity of PMDD,” she says. “We need more training, more research, and more support systems in place before more lives are lost.”

For more information on PMDD and Amanda Westphal’s counselling services, visit amandawestphal.com.au or contact hello@amandawestphal.com.au.

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A recent MYOB survey reports that 31% of business owners know they need mental health support, 44% have experienced anxiety and 61% believe they could do more to improve mental health and wellbeing.

“Being unable to sleep, rest, switch off and having a constantly busy brain are all symptoms of being stressed at work. And the poor business owner who is as stressed as their staff, struggle to not only get their head around the new psychological safety legislation but also have no idea how to implement or create a safer work environment,” explains Sharné Lategan, reformed lawyer and now workplace psychological safety expert.

Recent data from the Australian Institute and Safe Work Australia highlight the critical impact of mental health on business success:

• Australian businesses lose an estimated $4.7 billion annually due to absenteeism linked to mental ill-health, and $6.1 billion due to presenteeism, where employees are present but not productive;
• Poor mental health results in 12 million days of absenteeism, placing additional strain on already stretched business owners; and
• Since 2017, mental health claims have risen by 36.9%, with lost time averaging four times longer, and compensation being three times higher, than for physical injuries.

With mental health claims in Australia projected to double by 2030, and the costs ultimately falling on business owners, the need for proactive workplace mental health strategies has never been more urgent.

“The psychological safety legislation offers a path to reverse the significant losses and stressors associated with ill-mental health in the workplace,” Ms Lategan said.

“While business owners may find the code complex and daunting at first, it holds the potential to transform workplaces into environments of increased productivity and decreased absenteeism.”

To support business owners, Ms Lategan has launched the Become Code Compliant Program, a one of its kind online program tailored specifically for SMEs. The program provides a step-by-step guide to complying with the Psychosocial Code alongside 150 strategies SMEs can adopt to foster healthier, more productive work environments.

The Productivity Commission’s Inquiry shows that for every dollar invested in mental health initiatives, businesses can expect a return of $1.30 to $4.

“This shifts the focus from onerous compliance to prudent decision making”, Ms Lategan said.

For more information on how addressing psychological safety laws can lead to sustainable success for both teams and their leaders, contact Sharné Lategan on 0427 900 281.

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Mr Watson brings a proven track record of sales leadership and innovation across a wide range of industries, having held senior roles at LinkedIn, Salesforce and employee wellbeing platform Sonder.

Starting as CCO in July, Mr Watson will play a pivotal role in driving Healthengine’s commercial strategy, forging strategic partnerships, and delivering exceptional value to customers, reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer Dan Stinton.

Mr Stinton says: “David’s appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to servicing our healthcare customers nationwide, and we’re extremely excited to have him onboard as a core part of the Healthengine executive leadership team.

“With extensive commercial experience across a wide range of industries, we look forward to working with him to cement our position as the leading primary healthcare marketplace in Australia.”

Mr Watson says: “Being part of a company that makes a difference – leveraging innovative approaches to drive business success and fostering a culture of excellence – is something I’m incredibly passionate about, so it’s only natural that I’m thrilled to join Healthengine as its new Chief Commercial Officer.

“With a mission of improving access to healthcare for all Australians, there’s plenty for me to get stuck into at Healthengine. I’m looking forward to working with Dan and the team to achieve our ambitious goals and help unlock the company’s full potential.”

Mr Watson’s appointment underscores Healthengine’s dedication to fostering excellent talent to continue its growth trajectory, with the company also appointing Matt Gudge as its Chief Marketing Officer in March.

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