SA Pharmacy has embarked on a significant journey towards reconciliation through the implementation of its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This initiative is led by Barkindji woman, Cheyne Sullivan, the Manager of Aboriginal Health (Lead Pharmacist) and Beyond the Gap Project Manager, who is dedicated to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The decision to create a tailored RAP arose from the recognition that SA Pharmacy's unique services and context required a specific approach, distinct from the broader framework of the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN).

SA Pharmacy services all public hospitals in metropolitan areas and most regional public hospitals, employing around 800 staff members. The organisation operates across various domains, including clinical pharmacy, chemotherapy manufacturing, medicines information, education, and research.

The RAP is built in alignment with the SA Pharmacy Aboriginal Health Strategic Plan's four foundational pillars: Purpose, People, Partnerships, and Performance.

The 'Purpose' pillar emphasises the necessity for staff to understand the historical context and significance of their work with Aboriginal communities. This foundational knowledge is essential for providing culturally responsive healthcare.

The 'People' pillar focuses on increasing Aboriginal workforce representation and creating leadership opportunities within SA Pharmacy. The organisation aims for a 3% employment target for Aboriginal staff, recognising that a diverse workforce enhances cultural understanding and service delivery.

The 'Partnerships' pillar aligns with RAP objectives to foster meaningful relationships with Aboriginal communities and organisations.

Lastly, the 'Performance' pillar addresses how SA Pharmacy can meet and exceed National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards specifically related to Aboriginal health.

Since launching their Innovate RAP in February 2024, SA Pharmacy has made considerable progress.

Offering face-to-face cultural awareness training which is mandated for all managers and available to all staff reflects SA Pharmacy's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where cultural capability is prioritised.

Another key aspect of SA Pharmacy's RAP journey is their focus on community engagement. They have recently appointed a Community Network Engagement Officer – Aboriginal Health who is tasked with building and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal communities. This role is crucial for co-designing services that meet the needs of these communities, as many individuals are unaware of the full scope of services offered by SA Pharmacy.

In terms of language and terminology, SA Pharmacy has shifted from using "traditional medicine" to "cultural medicines," reflecting a more contemporary understanding of Aboriginal practices. This change was influenced by feedback from Elders who felt that the term "traditional" implied outdated practices.

Looking ahead, SA Pharmacy is committed to deepening its community relationships through co-design initiatives. By actively involving Aboriginal people in the development of services, they aim to ensure that their offerings are relevant and effective.

The organisation recognises that many people still perceive pharmacy services as retail-oriented and supply-based rather than clinically-focused on quality use of medicines. Therefore, clarifying their role as a provider of clinically led, cost-efficient professional pharmacy services is essential.

SA Pharmacy's RAP journey represents a proactive approach to reconciliation within healthcare. By tailoring their strategies to meet the specific needs of their community and workforce, they are setting a powerful example of how healthcare organisations can enhance cultural responsiveness and improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in South Australia.

Through ongoing commitment and collaboration with local communities, SA Pharmacy aims to create a more inclusive healthcare system that respects and honours Aboriginal cultures and histories.