At the recent Sigma Pharmacist Summit, Andrew McGrath was honoured with the prestigious title of Discount Drug Stores Pharmacist of the Year 2024 and Discount Drug Stores Pharmacist of the Year – Community Engagement 2024.

So, what’s the secret of his success?

Andy began his pharmacy career in a small community pharmacy within a hospital, working with a team of five. His internship provided him with a broad exposure to the field, giving him the confidence to manage a busy pharmacy. He later started his own consulting business, enhancing pharmacy workflows with strategies for MedsChecks and Diabetes MedsChecks. This experience led to a partnership in his first pharmacy, marking the beginning of a successful career.

Originally from Newcastle, Andy became a part-owner of Thornton Discount Drug Store seven years ago and reached a 50% partnership in 2022.

Thornton DDS in NSW offers patient-centred care, in a fast-paced, supportive environment.  Andy embodies the essence of a community pharmacist providing exceptional customer service, drawing customers directly to him. Beyond his pharmacy role, Andy actively engages with various community groups, sponsoring events and supporting aged care initiatives. His commitment to fundraising is unwavering, ensuring the community feels connected to his store as part of their team. Known personally within the community, Andy commands deep respect from both his team and the community alike.

Being part of the DDS Pharmacy family is a privilege for Andy. He appreciates the organisation’s commitment to innovation and accessibility, feeling supported by the Sigma Support Office to advance healthcare.

“I feel very privileged to be a part of an organisation that is really trying to make a difference in the lives of many Australians through innovation and accessibility. As an owner in a growing community, it is very refreshing to have the support from Head Office to push the envelope in healthcare and be at the forefront of the ever-changing pharmacy landscape.”

On accepting his award, Andy thanked his team and said: “I’ll accept this award on behalf of an amazing team, from the other pharmacists to the management team to the amazing shop assistants and the juniors, we love what we do, we love caring for our customers and it’s an honour to represent our community on the big stage.”

This isn’t the first time Thornton DDS has been recognised for their outstanding achievements. Last year at the 2023 DDS National Conference, the Thornton DDS team took out a number of awards:

• National Pharmacy of the Year 2023
• National Pharmacist of the Year 2023 – Georgia Smith
• NSW Pharmacy of the Year 2023
• National Community Engagement Pharmacy of the Year 2023

We are incredibly proud to have Andy as a member of our Discount Drug Stores family and once again congratulate him on this well-deserved win!

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