Lowood Discount Drug Store Pharmacist Tamara Reynolds recently completed a full scope clinical placement in the remote Arnhem Land community of Maningrida, home to around 3,000 people, but with one of the region’s highest rates of rheumatic heart disease in Australia. For Tamara, her placement in the community was both professionally rewarding, as well as personally meaningful.

Having previously worked in Maningrida for five years as an onsite pharmacist at Mala’la Primary Health Care Clinic, she was drawn back by the opportunity to reconnect with the community while learning how full scope practice can be integrated into care alongside highly skilled GPs and Remote Area Nurses.

Building cultural capability and patient trust

“I was excited to return to Maningrida, where I had previously worked, and continue building relationships within the community while learning how to apply full scope practice in this setting,” said Tamara.

She emphasised the importance of trust and rapport in supporting Aboriginal patients.

“Cultural protocols, kinship systems and language differences shape how care is delivered. Using interpreters, taking time to listen, and showing respect can make a profound difference to patient engagement.”

Clinical learning in a remote setting

As the only health centre in the community, Mala’la Clinic exposed Tamara to a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions.

“Working in this environment expanded my clinical knowledge, improved my confidence in decision-making, and deepened my appreciation of collaborative practice,” she said. “Pharmacists are often the most regular point of contact when patients collect medicines, which provides opportunities for screening, adherence support and early intervention.”

She believes pharmacists can and should use their complete training, which is particularly relevant in Aboriginal communities and remote settings.

“The full scope practice allows pharmacists to strengthen relationships with patients and contribute directly to improved health outcomes,” she said. “Where access barriers and poorer health statistics persist, pharmacists working to full scope can bridge gaps in care, ease pressure on other health professionals, and support continuity of care.”

Tamara encourages colleagues to consider placements in remote Aboriginal communities.

“It’s one of the most rewarding and transformative opportunities a pharmacist can have. Beyond clinical capability, you gain personal growth through cultural learning, adaptability, and strong connections with both colleagues and community members.”

“The experience has shaped the way I view pharmacy practice, and I believe every pharmacist should consider it if they want to expand their skills and make a real difference.”