Dr Lynn Weekes to step down as CEO of NPS MedicineWise

Dr Weekes is the inaugural CEO of NPS MedicineWise, and has led the organisation since its establishment in 1998 as the National Prescribing Service Limited – the lead implementation body for quality use of medicines and medical tests evolving from the National Medicines Policy and working independently of government.

Chair of NPS MedicineWise, Mr Peter Turner, said that Dr Weekes has been an exemplary health leader and a champion for improved health care and decision making.

“Lynn’s contributions to the community through quality use of medicines were formally recognised in 2013 when she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia,” said Mr Turner.

“Anyone who has worked with her understands how integral she has been to embedding quality use of medicines and other health technologies into the Australian health system.

“Her leadership, collaborative style and deep expertise over the past two decades has brought to life the original vision for quality use of medicines and cemented this as a cornerstone of sustainable and high quality healthcare.”

Dr Weekes originally practised as a pharmacist, and has contributed significantly through research and her professional career to the development of quality use of medicines resources and services in Australia. Each year, NPS MedicineWise delivers over 25,000 academic detailing visits in general practices all around the country to support quality prescribing, and reaches millions of consumers to improve health decision making.

“Lynn has been instrumental in ensuring NPS MedicineWise remains innovative and responsive to the needs of health professionals, service providers, industry, regulators, consumers and the community, and a thriving and successful organisation,” Mr Turner added.

Dr Weekes will depart at the end of June 2018. The board’s search for a new chief executive will commence in early 2018.