Credentialed Pharmacist: Newcastle & Lake Macquarie
Kate Woods is a fully credentialed pharmacist providing Home Medicines Reviews (HMRs) and aged care pharmacy services across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. With a decade of experience across hospital, community, and aged care settings, Kate brings sound clinical knowledge and a patient-centred approach to every consultation.
After finishing school with a curiosity for lifestyle and preventative medicine, Kate completed a Bachelor of Naturopathy at Southern Cross University. However, it was during this time, while working at her local pharmacy, she discovered her interest in medicines.
She went on to obtain a Master of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney and completed her internship at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. This foundation led to a successful career in hospital pharmacy, including John Hunter, Gosford, and The Mater hospitals.
Kate has broad experience across medical disciplines but has developed a special interest in geriatric care.
In 2023, she joined a randomised controlled trial led by Professor Sarah Hilmer, serving as a deprescribing stewardship pharmacist, a role focused on reducing medication burden and improving outcomes for older adults. She now works onsite in multiple aged care facilities, championing safer quality use of medicines and enhanced quality of life for residents.
Kate was awarded the Anstice MBA Scholarship for Community Leadership in 2023 by the University of Sydney, recognising her commitment to leadership in healthcare.
Currently completing her MBA, Kate is developing a passion for advancing the role of pharmacists in primary care and hopes to see clinical pharmacists more deeply embedded in collaborative teams, driving meaningful health outcomes for patients.
Kate is also a proud mother of two children and one fur baby – a chocolate labrador. She values the flexibility of her role, which helps her navigate the challenges of workâlife balance with a sense of purpose and personal achievement.
