Andy Davis
Andy (Ngā Rauru) is on a path to advocate for evidence-informed improvements in medicines access, clinical decision-making and equity of care.
"Pharmacy appealed to me as a respected and trusted healthcare profession that offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives. As medicines experts, pharmacists play a vital role in optimising treatment, particularly within hospital settings where we collaborate with healthcare teams on prescribing decisions and contribute directly to improving patient outcomes.
The University of Auckland’s strong academic reputation and supportive research environment made it the natural choice. I’m fortunate to work at the University and collaborate closely with my masters supervisors who are also my colleagues.
"My study 'Prescribing patterns of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) in Māori with heart failure in Aotearoa’ is deeply connected to the current roles I hold as a Senior Clinical Pharmacist, Teacher Practitioner, and Vice-President and Treasurer of The Māori Pharmacists' Association. Heart failure is a prevalent condition I frequently encounter on the hospital wards. It’s also a topic I teach at the undergraduate level. Heart failure carries significant morbidity and mortality, and disproportionately impacts Māori, who tend to present at a younger age, have more comorbidities and experience poorer outcomes. Through this study, I aim to analyse prescribing patterns of GDMT and outcomes (such as hospitalisations and mortality) for Māori with heart failure, identify potential disparities, and advocate for evidence-informed improvements in medicines access, clinical decision-making and equity of care.
"The overarching goal of my study is to highlight inequities and inform more culturally responsive and evidence-based prescribing practices for Māori.
"Through the masters programme, I aim to develop a strong foundation in core research skills. I’m also looking forward to forming valuable connections with clinicians, academics and researchers in my field.
"Once I have graduated, I plan to continue integrating research into both my clinical and academic roles, with a strong focus on advancing health equity. I hope to contribute to national guidelines and drive improvements within the health system, particularly around the equitable use of medicines for Māori. In the longer term, I may explore pursuing a PhD to further deepen my research capacity and broaden my impact.
"For pharmacists exploring a Master of Clinical Pharmacy research pathway, my advice is to choose a topic you're genuinely passionate about, something rooted in your daily practice that holds meaning for you. That alignment can make the experience fulfilling and impactful."