Broome's Michaela Dowdell named AdPhas Intern of the Year
L-R: AdPha WA Branch Chair Richard Grainger, WA Country Health Service Staff Development Pharmacist Melanie Utting, Intern Pharmacist Michaela Dowdell, Kimberley Regional Chief Pharmacist Roy Finnigan, and AdPha CEO Kristin Michaels.
Broome Health Campus intern pharmacist Michaela Dowdell was recently named Intern of the Year at AdPha’s 2025 Branch Awards – the second WA Country Health Service pharmacy intern to bring the award back to the bush.
The Branch Awards recognises the achievements of AdPha members and their contribution to pharmacy.
As an intern pharmacist at Broome Health Campus, Michaela is a valued member of the pharmacy team and demonstrates initiative and a strong commitment to patient care.
Her nomination highlighted a recent example where she independently identified and resolved a prescribing issue involving a compounded medicine.
Michaela researched this matter, worked with prescribers and the compounding pharmacy to clarify the correct therapy - ensuring safe and timely supply for the patient.
This proactive approach, combined with her ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with colleagues and reflect on her practice, illustrates the professionalism and clinical reasoning Michaela is already bringing to her role.
Chief Pharmacist Jonathan Nugent said Michaela’s proactive approach to medicine management and patient-centred care makes her a deserving recipient.
“Michaela is a valued member of the pharmacy team and has shown optimism, energy and dedication to improving medicines management in country WA,” he said.
“This award highlights the impact she’s already making early in her career and recognises her as a future pharmacist who is committed to patient-centred care, her community, and the profession.”
For more information about the awards and winners, visit: Western Australia Branch - Advanced Pharmacy Australia