Locum pharmacists are a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system, ensuring that communities receive uninterrupted pharmacy services. However, when shifts are booked directly with pharmacies without notifying Pharmacy SOS, a range of issues can arise for both the locum and the pharmacy. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s crucial to notify us of any directly booked shifts and the benefits it provides to all parties involved.
Avoid Missed Payments and Benefits
When a locum pharmacist fails to notify Pharmacy SOS about directly booked shifts, they run the risk of missing out on critical payments and benefits. Pharmacy SOS is responsible for ensuring timely payments, correct superannuation contributions, and providing essential coverage such as WorkCover insurance. Without notification, we can’t guarantee that these elements are taken care of, potentially leaving the locum financially vulnerable and uninsured.
The Importance of Superannuation and Insurance
Superannuation and WorkCover insurance are essential protections that Pharmacy SOS manages on behalf of locum pharmacists. Directly booked shifts can lead to administrative oversights that may leave locums without proper superannuation contributions or insurance coverage. As a locum, ensuring that Pharmacy SOS is aware of all your shifts allows us to manage your payroll and benefits effectively, avoiding gaps in superannuation and protecting you under the appropriate insurance coverage.
Prevent Legal Issues for Pharmacies
For pharmacies, the consequences of not notifying Pharmacy SOS are significant. Without proper reporting, directly booked shifts can be classified as sham contracting by the ATO, which can result in substantial financial and legal consequences. Pharmacies may be required to withhold PAYG tax, pay superannuation, and account for WorkCover premiums themselves—adding unnecessary administrative burden. By notifying us, pharmacies can offload these tasks, ensuring compliance with tax laws and avoiding legal risks.
Minimise Administrative Work
Notifying Pharmacy SOS of directly booked shifts streamlines both payroll and paperwork. For locum pharmacists, this means less hassle during tax season, as our records ensure that everything is accurate and in order. For pharmacies, it means reduced administrative workload, allowing them to focus on what matters most—delivering high-quality patient care. We handle the complex aspects of employment—superannuation, tax obligations, and insurance—so that both locum pharmacists and pharmacies can operate smoothly.
The Simple Solution: Notify Pharmacy SOS
The solution to these problems is simple: notify Pharmacy SOS of all shifts, including those directly booked with pharmacies. Whether through email or phone, keeping us in the loop ensures that both locum pharmacists and pharmacies are protected from legal and financial complications. Our team is equipped to handle the administrative workload, allowing locum pharmacists to receive their entitled benefits and pharmacies to remain compliant with legal obligations.
Finally…
Notifying Pharmacy SOS of all directly booked shifts is essential for ensuring that both locum pharmacists and pharmacies avoid financial and legal issues. By keeping us informed, locum pharmacists receive timely pay, correct superannuation, and appropriate insurance coverage, while pharmacies remain compliant with their tax and employment responsibilities. Taking this simple step ensures smoother operations for everyone involved, allowing the focus to remain on patient care.